iron
noun
Definitions of iron noun
metal
- B1Uncountable
A common greyish metal chemical element, known for its strength, used in steel production and found in trace amounts in blood.
Iron is prone to rusting.
The liver is a rich source of iron in one's diet.
iron ore
tool
- B1Countable
An appliance used to smooth clothes, typically with a handle and a flat base, usually heated by electricity.
I need a new steam iron.
This compact travel iron is perfect for packing.
Please remove the iron from the ironing board.
sport
- Countable
A golf club with an iron or steel head used for hitting the ball in golf.
He usually uses a seven iron for mid-range shots.
She used an iron to hit the ball onto the green.
He needs to practice using different irons.
Phrases of iron noun
- irons
Chains used to restrain someone to prevent escape or movement.
• The criminals were put in irons to prevent them from escaping.
verb
Definitions of iron verb
- B1TransitiveIntransitive
To make clothes smooth and flat by using an iron.
I iron my shirts every morning.
These pants need to be ironed.
She ironed her clothes, ready to go out.
adjective
Definitions of iron adjective
- Before noun
Being very strong physically, mentally, or emotionally.
She showed an iron will when facing the challenges.
He overcame the difficulties with iron determination.
She needs iron discipline to accomplish her goals.
Idioms
- have a few, several, etc. irons in the fire
To be engaged in multiple activities or projects simultaneously, or to have several options or plans available.
• She has several writing projects going on at once; she has a lot of irons in the fire.
- rule something with an iron hand/fist
To govern or control someone or a group of people very strictly and with absolute authority.
• The president ruled the company with an iron fist, ensuring that all employees followed the rules.
- an iron hand/fist in a velvet glove
Describes someone who appears gentle and kind but is actually very firm and determined in their actions and decisions.
• She managed the company with 'an iron hand in a velvet glove,' appearing kind but being very strict in her demands.
Phrasal Verbs of iron
- iron something out
to eliminate issues or devise solutions
• At the meeting, we addressed all the issues in the project and worked to find solutions, ultimately succeeding in ironing out the concerns.