Iron Meaning and Definition
Iron
Pronunciation
/ˈaɪərn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26, known for its metallic properties, strength, and versatility in various industrial applications.
Examples
- The construction company used iron beams to build the skyscraper.
- Iron is a crucial component in the production of steel.
Synonyms
- Metal
- Steel
Antonyms
- Copper
- Glass
Additional Information
Iron is widely used in construction, transportation, and consumer goods due to its high strength, durability, and malleability. Additionally, iron-based compounds have important biological and therapeutic applications.
Iron is also a vital nutrient for the human body, essential for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells, and is often administered as a dietary supplement to alleviate iron deficiency anemia.
Etymology
The word “iron” originates from the Old English word “īren”, derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*iziz”, which is also the source of the Modern English words “island” and “ice”.
Usage Notes
The term “iron” can be used in various contexts, including physics, chemistry, biology, and everyday language. For instance, in cookery, “iron” refers to a cooking utensil or tool.
Cultural References
Iron has appeared in various cultural references, such as in literature, art, music, and film. For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”, iron is one of the seven precious metals.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Iron fist in a velvet glove” – describing someone with a strong authority but gentle manner
- “Iron out the wrinkles” – to remove difficulties or problems
Related Words or Phrases
- Metal
- Steel
- Copper
Collocations
- Iron ore
- Iron nail
- Iron pipe
Frequency of Use
Iron is a common word in the English language, with an estimated frequency of 0.15 occurrences per 1,000 words in contemporary texts.
Common Misspellings
- Ierin
- Irione