An axial compressor includes: a spray nozzle (32) that supplies droplets to a working fluid before compression or being compressed; a variable stator vane (56) having a stem section (94) inserted in an insertion hole (73) in a casing (54), the variable stator vane (56) having an angle of attack varied through sliding motion relative to the casing caused by rotation of the stem section; a sealing groove (93) provided in a sliding portion between a thrust washer (82) slid relative to the casing during rotation of the stem section and the casing; and a sealing member (92) housed in the sealing groove.
