axel
UK[ˈæks(ə)l]US[ˈæks(ə)l]
n
A jump in figure skating from the outer forward edge of one skate, with one and a half or more rotations in the air, and landing on the outer backward edge of the opposite skate.
Etymology
The word 'axel' is an eponym, derived from the name of the Norwegian figure skater Axel Paulsen (1855-1938), who invented and first performed the jump in 1882. It entered the English lexicon as a technical term in figure skating to specifically denote this challenging jump. The transition from a personal surname to a common noun exemplifies a common process of lexicalization in specialized fields, where an inventor's name becomes synonymous with their creation. Its spelling was anglicized from 'Axel' to 'axel', solidifying its status as a standard dictionary entry.
Analysis
This is a proper noun adopted into common usage. It is not productively formed from combinable English morphemes.
Examples
She landed a perfect triple axel during her free skate program.
The axel is considered one of the most difficult jumps because of its forward takeoff.
He has been practicing his double axel for months to improve his consistency.