ironside

noun

iron·​side ˈī(-ə)rn-ˌsīd How to pronounce ironside (audio)
: a man of great strength or bravery

Examples of ironside in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The nautical navy color represents the ship's old ironsides, and heritage red hints at its cannons. Janay Reece, CBS News, 13 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ironside was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Ironside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ironside. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

Biographical Definition

Ironside

biographical name

Iron·​side ˈī(-ə)rn-ˌsīd How to pronounce Ironside (audio)
William Edmund 1880–1959 1st Baron Ironside British field marshal
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