cast iron

¹

noun

1. an alloy of iron, carbon, and other elements, cast as a soft and strong, or as a hard and brittle, iron, depending on the mixture and methods of molding.

cast-iron

²

[kast-ahy-ern, kahst-]

adjective

1. made of cast iron.

2. not subject to change or exception.

   a cast-iron rule.

3. hardy.

   a cast-iron stomach.

cast iron

noun

1. iron containing so much carbon (1.7 to 4.5 per cent) that it cannot be wrought and must be cast into shape

adjective

1. made of cast iron

2. rigid, strong, or unyielding

   a cast-iron decision

Word History and Origins

Origin of cast iron¹

1655–65; cast (past participle of cast ( def. ) ) + iron

Origin of cast iron²

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

Le Creuset, which celebrates 100 years of business this year, is a French cookware brand known for its expertly crafted cast iron products available in a multitude of colorways.

From Salon

It is often used in the production of cast iron and stainless steels as well as some paint pigments, biofuels and solar panels.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's a feast of a play and really speaks to our times - it's fascinating to explore a king who has a cast iron right to rule."

From BBC

The fireplace in her sitting room is her only source of heating, but she also uses that hearth to cook food in cast iron pots.

From BBC

The owner currently has a chain link barrier in place to keep fans away, she now wants a cast iron gate for further deterrence.

From BBC