iron

word

/ˈaɪɝn/
EYE-urn
/ˈaɪən/
EYE-uhn

Definition

Iron is a strong, hard metal used to make things like tools, buildings, and machines. It can also mean a device used to remove wrinkles from clothes.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, 'iron' as a metal is uncountable: 'made of iron', 'iron bars'. As a clothing device, it is a countable noun: 'an iron'. As a verb, 'iron' means to press clothes: 'iron a shirt'. Common collocations: 'iron deficiency', 'cast iron', 'iron gate'.

Example Sentences

I need an iron for this shirt.

basic

She irons her clothes every morning.

basic

This pan is cast iron, so it stays hot for a long time.

natural

Can you iron this dress before we leave?

natural

The doctor said I might have low iron.

natural

This gate is made of iron.

basic