A tomahawk is a type of single-handed axe from North America, typically resembling an axe with a straight handle. The name entered the English language in the 17th century as an adaptation of the Powhatan (Virginian Algonquian) word. Tomahawks were versatile tools used by both Native Americans and European colonists, and were often employed as a hand-to-hand or thrown weapon. The metal tomahawk heads were originally based on a Royal Navy boarding axe and were used as a trade item with Native Americans for food and other provisions.