'axle' originates from Proto-Germanic, specifically the word '*akhsla', where the root meant 'axle' or 'shaft'.

'axle' changed from Old English word 'eaxl' (also written 'eaxle') and eventually became the modern English word 'axle'.

Initially, it meant 'shoulder or shaft (that supports a wheel)', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a rod or spindle passing through the center of a wheel'.