Definition of Iron (meaning 1 of 3 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Iron
To flatten wrinkles in clothes using a hot tool called an iron.
Detailed Definition of Iron
To press clothes with a heated iron to make them smooth and remove wrinkles.
How to Pronounce Iron
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables stressed on first: IRE-un. Same sound as noun forms.
Watch out: One syllable /aɪrn/ instead of two /ˈaɪən/.
Other Meanings of Iron
“Iron” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Iron as a noun
A household tool that gets hot and is used to flatten wrinkles in clothes like shirts and pants.
electric iron
#3 Iron as a noun
A hard metal that is found naturally and used to make strong things like tools, machines, and buildings.
cast iron
Origin and Etymology of Iron
From the noun 'iron' (the tool); means to use an iron on fabric.
How to Use Iron in a Sentence
Each example shows “iron” in the meaning “To flatten wrinkles in clothes using a hot…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“I iron my shirts every Sunday.”
-
“Can you iron this dress before the party?”
-
“She carefully ironed the delicate fabric to avoid damaging it.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Iron
Common Synonyms for Iron
Smart Synonyms for Iron — When to Use Each
- press
- formal or technical term for flattening fabric
- smooth
- general term for making surface even and flat
- flatten
- when emphasizing removal of bumps or wrinkles
Antonyms of Iron
Common Collocations with Iron
These phrases pair with “iron” in everyday English:
- iron clothes
- iron a shirt
- iron out wrinkles
- need ironing
- ironing board
Common Mistakes When Using Iron
Even fluent speakers slip up with “iron”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She irons the clothes every Monday morning for to save time.
- ✓ Correct: She irons the clothes every Monday morning to save time.
- Why: Use simple infinitive 'to save', not 'for to save'.
- ✗ Wrong: The shirt don't need ironing.
- ✓ Correct: The shirt doesn't need ironing.
- Why: Third person singular needs 'does', not 'do'. Contraction: 'doesn't'.
Words Confused With Iron
- Iron vs Press: Press is more formal; iron is everyday term for using an iron on clothes.
Other Forms of Iron
Frequently Asked Questions About Iron
What is the meaning of "Iron"?
To flatten wrinkles in clothes using a hot tool called an iron.
How do you pronounce "Iron"?
The IPA is /ˈaɪən/. Two syllables stressed on first: IRE-un. Same sound as noun forms.
What part of speech is "Iron"?
"Iron" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Iron"?
Common synonyms include press, flatten, smooth.
How do you use "Iron" in a sentence?
For example: "I iron my shirts every Sunday."