Meaning of 'iron' (Webster Dictionary)
- 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.
- An instrument or utensil made of iron; -- chiefly in
composition; as, a flatiron, a smoothing iron, etc.
- Fetters; chains; handcuffs; manacles.
- Strength; power; firmness; inflexibility; as, to rule with a
rod of iron.
- Of, or made of iron; consisting of iron; as, an iron bar,
dust.
- Resembling iron in color; as, iron blackness.
- Like iron in hardness, strength, impenetrability, power of
endurance, insensibility, etc.;
- Rude; hard; harsh; severe.
- Firm; robust; enduring; as, an iron constitution.
- Inflexible; unrelenting; as, an iron will.
- Not to be broken; holding or binding fast; tenacious.
- To smooth with an instrument of iron; especially, to
smooth, as cloth, with a heated flatiron; -- sometimes used with out.
- To shackle with irons; to fetter or handcuff.
- To furnish or arm with iron; as, to iron a wagon.
Definition
[ n.]