meaning of iron
1. The most common and most useful metallic element, being of almost universal occurrence, usually in the form of an oxide (as hematite, magnetite, etc. ), or a hydrous oxide (as limonite, turgite, etc. ). It is reduced on an enormous scale in three principal forms; viz. , cast iron, steel, and wrought iron. Iron usually appears dark brown, from oxidation or impurity, but when pure, or on a fresh surface, is a gray or white metal. It is easily oxidized (rusted) by moisture, and is attacked by many corrosive agents. Symbol Fe (Latin Ferrum). Atomic weight 55. 9. Specific gravity, pure iron, 7. 86; cast iron, 7. 1. In magnetic properties, it is superior to all other substances.
2. An instrument or utensil made of iron; -- chiefly in composition; as, a flatiron, a smoothing iron, etc.
3. Fetters; chains; handcuffs; manacles.
4. Strength; power; firmness; inflexibility; as, to rule with a rod of iron.
5. Of, or made of iron; consisting of iron; as, an iron bar, dust.
6. Resembling iron in color; as, iron blackness.
7. Like iron in hardness, strength, impenetrability, power of endurance, insensibility, etc. ;
8. Rude; hard; harsh; severe.
9. Firm; robust; enduring; as, an iron constitution.
10. Inflexible; unrelenting; as, an iron will.
11. Not to be broken; holding or binding fast; tenacious.
12. See under Iron, a.
13. To smooth with an instrument of iron; especially, to smooth, as cloth, with a heated flatiron; -- sometimes used with out.
14. To shackle with irons; to fetter or handcuff.
15. To furnish or arm with iron; as, to iron a wagon.
16. home appliance consisting of a flat metal base that is heated and used to smooth cloth
Related Words
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