Iron Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
iron
[หaษชษrn ]
Definitions
metal
A strong, hard magnetic silvery-grey metal, the chemical element of atomic number 26, much used as a material for construction and manufacturing, especially in the form of steel.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| iron |
Commonly used to describe a household appliance used to press clothes and remove wrinkles.
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| metal |
A broad term used to refer to substances, usually hard and shiny, that conduct electricity and heat, and are typical materials in construction and manufacturing.
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| element |
Used when referring to substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means, or when discussing fundamental components of nature and science.
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| steel |
A strong, durable alloy of iron with carbon, often used in construction, tools, and appliances.
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Examples of usage
- Iron is commonly used in the construction industry.
- Many tools are made of iron.
cooking
A flat metal implement typically with a long handle, used for pressing clothes or bed linen.
Synonyms
flatiron, pressing tool.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| iron |
This word is most commonly used in general contexts to refer to the household appliance that is used to remove wrinkles from clothes through the application of heat and pressure.
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| pressing tool |
This phrase is very general and can refer to any tool used to press or apply pressure to objects. It is less specific than 'iron' and could be used in a variety of professional or industrial settings.
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| flatiron |
This term is sometimes used to refer to the same household appliance but is less commonly used in modern language. In historical contexts, it refers to heavier, non-electric irons that were heated on a stove.
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Examples of usage
- She heated the iron before using it on the shirt.
- The iron was left on the ironing board.
clothing
Smooth (clothes, sheets, etc.) with an iron.
Synonyms
press, smooth out.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| iron |
This term also refers to a strong metal element often used in construction and manufacturing.
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| press |
This term can be used when ironing clothes, especially when giving special attention to create sharp creases, or generally for applying pressure to smooth or flatten something.
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| smooth out |
This term is often used in a more general sense for making something flat or even, not necessarily related to ironing clothes.
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Examples of usage
- She ironed her dress before the party.
- He ironed his shirt for the meeting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- The Iron Age, which began around 1200 BC, marked a major turning point in human technology and culture.
- Ancient civilizations, like the Egyptians and Greeks, utilized iron for tools and weaponry, significantly affecting warfare and agriculture.
- Iron played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, leading to advancements in machinery, transportation, and infrastructure.
Science
- Iron is the most abundant element (by mass) in the universe's core, essential for the formation of Earth.
- This metal has unique properties, such as being ferromagnetic, meaning it can be magnetized and is attracted to magnets.
- Iron is an important nutrient for humans, as it helps carry oxygen in the blood, maintaining energy and overall health.
Pop Culture
- Iron Man, a popular superhero from Marvel Comics, represents innovation and strength, emphasizing the metal's iconic status.
- The phrase 'iron will' refers to a person's strong determination, linking the idea of strength to character and resolve.
- In literature, iron often symbolizes toughness and resilience, appearing frequently in works from ancient myths to modern novels.
Technology
- Iron is crucial in modern construction, often used in steel production, which is a key material for building skyscrapers and bridges.
- In electronics, iron alloys are used to enhance various components, including transformers and electromagnets.
- Recent advancements have led to the development of new iron-based materials that are lighter yet stronger, paving the way for innovative applications.
Origin of 'iron'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'iron' comes from the Old English 'isern' and has Germanic roots.
- In Latin, iron is called 'ferrum,' which is still used today in chemistry for its symbol, Fe.
- The name for iron in many languages shares a similar root, showcasing its historic importance across cultures.
The word 'iron' originates from the Old English word 'ฤซren', which comes from Proto-Germanic 'ฤซsarn'. Iron has been used since ancient times, with evidence of iron artifacts dating back to around 3000 BC. It played a crucial role in the development of human civilization, particularly in the Iron Age. Iron is one of the most abundant elements on Earth and continues to be a vital material in various industries.
See also: ironic, ironically, ironing, irons, irony.