iron

¹iron

noun \ˈī(-ə)rn\

Definition of IRON

1

: a silver-white malleable ductile magnetic heavy metallic element that readily rusts in moist air, occurs native in meteorites and combined in most igneous rocks, is the most used of metals, and is vital to biological processes — see element table

2

: something made of iron: as a plural : shackles for the hands or legs b : a heated metal implement used for branding or cauterizing c : a household device usually with a flat metal base that is heated to smooth, finish, or press (as cloth) d : stirrup —usually used in plural e : any of a series of numbered golf clubs having relatively thin metal heads — compare wood

3

: great strength, hardness, or determination

— iron in the fire

1

: a matter requiring close attention

2

: a prospective course of action

Origin of IRON

Middle English, from Old English īsern, īren; akin to Old High German īsarn iron

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Metals and Metallurgy Terms

assay, bloom, bullion, ductile, ingot, malleable, patina, plate, temper, tensile