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hand axe

 - 2 dictionary results

hand ax

–noun
1. Also, hand axe. a usually large, general-purpose bifacial Paleolithic stone tool, often oval or pear-shaped in form and characteristic of certain Lower Paleolithic industries.
2. broad hatchet.

Origin:
bef. 1000; ME, OE
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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Science Dictionary
hand ax also handax   (hānd'āks')  Pronunciation Key 
A cutting or chopping tool, especially of the Lower Paleolithic Period, typically consisting of a piece of flint or other coarse stone that has been flaked on both sides to produce a sharp edge running all around the perimeter. Hand axes are core tools (produced from a found stone rather than from a processed flake) and have been found in several basic, often pointed shapes, including oval, triangular, and cordate (heart-shaped). The most common Paleolithic tool, they are especially associated with the Acheulian and some Mousterian tool cultures.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2002. Published by Houghton Mifflin. All rights reserved.
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