DCHP-2

hatchet DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

• in phrases where the hatchet symbolizes war; originally an Indian metaphor:

• 1 n. — Obs.

  heave up the hatchet against, threaten or promise to make war on.

• 2 n. — Obs.

  send a hatchet, invite to join an alliance for making war.

• 3 † n. — Obs.

  take up the hatchet, declare war; make war.

• 4 † n.

  bury the hatchet, stop fighting; make peace; end a quarrel.

  See also: tomahawk ((n.)) (def. 2)  

• 5 † n.

  dig up the hatchet, resume hostilities; break a peace agreed to by burying the hatchet.