ironbound

[ ahy-ern-bound ]

adjective

1. bound with iron.
2. rock-bound; rugged.
3. hard; rigid; unyielding.

ironbound

/ ˈaɪənˌbaʊnd /

adjective

1. bound with iron
2. unyielding; inflexible
3. (of a coast) rocky; rugged

Word History and Origins

Origin of ironbound¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; iron, -bound ¹

Example Sentences

A word dropped that I was returning there would bring me, by ironbound custom, an invitation to travel in their company.

From Project Gutenberg

An angry roar went up to Heaven, followed by a hail of blows upon the stout, ironbound oak, and an imperious call to open.

From Project Gutenberg

Three days ago, two shipwrecks took place upon our ironbound coast.

From Project Gutenberg

There, in front of the ironbound box, knelt Pomponio, busily at work on the stout padlock that guarded the treasures within.

From Project Gutenberg

On the far side of the house I found him pressed close against the old ironbound oak door of the chapel.

From Project Gutenberg