Steel: meaning, definitions and examples
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steel
[stiːl ]
Definitions
metal material
Steel is a strong metal alloy made mainly of iron, with a small amount of carbon. It is widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries due to its durability and strength.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Many skyscrapers are built using steel frames.
- Automobiles often have steel components for added safety.
- The bridge was constructed with steel beams to support heavy traffic.
to make hard and resolute
To steel oneself means to mentally prepare oneself for a difficult or challenging situation. It involves becoming strong and determined in the face of adversity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| steel |
Doubling as a noun referring to the strong, durable metal, or metaphorically for giving oneself emotional strength.
|
| harden |
Making something physically firmer or emotionally more resilient, can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses.
|
| toughen |
Increase physical or emotional strength, often with a connotation of facing adversity, sometimes negative connotation when overdone.
|
| brace |
Physically or mentally preparing oneself for impact or tension, commonly used in everyday situations or emergency scenarios.
|
Examples of usage
- She steeled herself before delivering the difficult news.
- He steeled his resolve to overcome the obstacles in his path.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'steel' comes from the Old English ' stylla,' which referred to a 'blade' or 'sword.'
- In Latin, the word 'stālis' means solid, showing how important strength was to its definition.
- The transition from bronze to steel marked a significant point in human history called the Iron Age.
Historical Significance
- The development of steelmaking techniques was vital during the Industrial Revolution, leading to railroads and skyscrapers.
- Ancient cultures like the Romans created early forms of steel which were used in weapons and tools.
- Samurai swords, made from a unique type of steel called Tamahagane, represented a blend of beauty and functionality in Japanese culture.
Science
- Steel is an alloy primarily made of iron, with a small amount of carbon added to enhance its strength.
- Different types of steel, like stainless steel, are created by adding other elements, like chromium, to resist rust.
- The process of heating and cooling steel makes it tougher and shapes it, known as tempering.
Pop Culture
- In movies, 'steel' is often used to symbolize strength and resilience, seen in characters like the 'Steel Man' superhero.
- The term 'steeling one's resolve' refers to preparing mentally for a tough situation, showing how the word has made its way into everyday language.
- The term 'steampunk' dresses Victorian aesthetics using advanced technology, often featuring steel cogs and machinery.
Psychology
- The term 'steel' is often used metaphorically in phrases like 'a heart of steel,' indicating someone with a tough personality.
- Studies suggest that people often equate strength with emotional resilience, drawing parallels with materials like steel.
- Cognitive dissonance occurs when one’s beliefs about strength clash with emotional vulnerability, revealing how we perceive toughness.
Translations
Translations of the word "steel" in other languages:
🇵🇹 aço
🇮🇳 इस्पात
🇩🇪 Stahl
🇮🇩 baja
🇺🇦 сталь
🇵🇱 stal
🇯🇵 鋼鉄 (こうてつ)
🇫🇷 acier
🇪🇸 acero
🇹🇷 çelik
🇰🇷 강철 (강철)
🇸🇦 فولاذ
🇨🇿 ocel
🇸🇰 oceľ
🇨🇳 钢 (gāng)
🇸🇮 jeklo
🇮🇸 stál
🇰🇿 болат
🇬🇪 ფოლადი
🇦🇿 polad
🇲🇽 acero