from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Hatchet \Hatch"et\ (-[e^]t), n. [F. hachette, dim. of hache ax.
See 1st {Hatch}, {Hash}.]
1. A small ax with a short handle, to be used with one hand.
[1913 Webster]
2. Specifically, a tomahawk.
[1913 Webster]
Buried was the bloody hatchet. --Longfellow.
[1913 Webster]
{hatchet face}, a thin, sharp face, like the edge of a
hatchet; hence:
{hatchet-faced}, sharp-visaged. --Dryden.
{To bury the hatchet}, to make peace or become reconciled.
{To take up the hatchet}, to make or declare war. The last
two phrases are derived from the practice of the American
Indians.