hatchet: Meaning and Definition of

hatch•et

1. a small, short-handled ax having the end of the head opposite the blade in the form of a hammer, made to be used with one hand. See illus. under
2. a tomahawk.
3. hatchetfish.
4. to become reconciled or reunited; make peace.
5. to begin or resume hostilities; prepare for or go to war: The natives are taking up the hatchet against the enemy.

1. to cut, destroy, kill, etc., with a hatchet.
2. to abridge, delete, excise, etc.: The network censor may hatchet 30 minutes from the script.