There are seven different Hebrew words translated 'ax' or 'axe,' with various shades of meaning. De 19:5; Jg 9:48; 2Sa 12:31; 1Ch 20:3; Ps 74:6; Jer 10:3; Eze 26:9; Mt 3:10; Lu 3:9.
Even now the ax is laid at the root of the trees, and every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
And even now the ax is laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire."