The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word HEADSMAN
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More clues leading to the result HEADSMAN
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The straight part
We know that "Wielder of axe" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case wielder of axe = headsman.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does HEADSMAN mean?
HEADSMAN noun- A chief person; a head man
- An executioner whose method of dispatching the condemned is decapitation.
- A labourer in a colliery who transports the coal from the workings to the horseway, and who is oftentimes assisted by a younger worker called a foal.
- One in command of a whaling vessel.