Ironclad: meaning, definitions and examples
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ironclad
[ ˈaɪərnˌklæd ]
law, guarantee
Ironclad refers to something that is so strong or well-built that it cannot be broken or altered. In legal terms, it often describes agreements, contracts, or guarantees that are very solid and offer no room for dispute. The term suggests an invulnerable quality, signifying that the subject is protected or fortified against attacks or challenges. Ironclad can also refer to something indisputable, where there is no possibility of argument.
Synonyms
incontestable, indisputable, solid, unbreakable, watertight
Examples of usage
- He presented an ironclad case to the jury.
- The contract was ironclad and left no room for loopholes.
- Her argument was ironclad, convincing everyone in the room.
historical, warship
An ironclad is a type of warship that was armored with iron or steel plates during the 19th century. These ships were designed to withstand artillery fire, revolutionizing naval warfare by making traditional wooden ships obsolete. The term became widely known during the American Civil War, with notorious examples like the USS Monitor and CSS Virginia. Ironclads marked a significant advancement in military ship design.
Synonyms
armored ship, battlecruiser, warship
Examples of usage
- The ironclad battleship played a crucial role in the Civil War.
- Naval historians study the evolution of ironclad ships.
- This museum exhibits artifacts from famous ironclads.
Translations
Translations of the word "ironclad" in other languages:
🇵🇹 inflexível
🇮🇳 अडिग
🇩🇪 eisenhart
🇮🇩 kekal
🇺🇦 незламний
🇵🇱 nieskazitelny
🇯🇵 鉄壁の
🇫🇷 inflexible
🇪🇸 inflexible
🇹🇷 sarsılmaz
🇰🇷 철벽의
🇸🇦 صلب
🇨🇿 neochvějný
🇸🇰 neochvejné
🇨🇳 坚定的
🇸🇮 neomajen
🇮🇸 óbreytanlegur
🇰🇿 темірдей
🇬🇪 რკინიგზა
🇦🇿 dəmir
🇲🇽 inflexible
Etymology
The term 'ironclad' originates from the mid-19th century, first used in the context of warships that were covered with iron plating. The earliest known usage of the term appears in relation to the historic battles during the American Civil War, notably with the introduction of the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia, which were among the first ironclads engaging in combat. The design of these vessels marked a shift in naval warfare, as their armored exteriors made them capable of withstanding traditional artillery, rendering wooden ships vulnerable and outdated. Additionally, the adjective 'ironclad' has evolved to describe anything that is unassailable in terms of arguments, guarantees, or contracts, showcasing its broad usage beyond maritime references. The metaphorical use of 'ironclad' emphasizes a level of durability, reliability, and invulnerability that captures the essence of the original design and purpose of the warships.