NYT Dictionary

MACHETE

/məˈʃɛ.ti/
NounVerbma-CHET-ema-chet-e · 3 syllablesGrade 5

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026

Meaning

A sword-like tool used for cutting large plants with a chopping motion, or used as a weapon.

Etymology

Origin: Latin

From Spanish machete, diminutive of macho (“sledgehammer”), from Latin mattea, possibly from mactare (“slaughter in sacrifice”); cognate with Old French machier, French massue, English mace.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

bologolokpangaparangsundangmatchethatchetjackknifeknifepick

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 6 recorded puzzles:

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