iron horse

noun

Older Use.

1. a locomotive.

iron horse

noun

1. archaic,  a steam-driven railway locomotive

Word History and Origins

Origin of iron horse¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

She pointed to an iron horse on an utility box, quickly adding the direction of the face and handle may someday need to be changed.

From Los Angeles Times

She points to an iron horse on an utility box, quickly adding the direction of the face and handle may someday need to be changed.

From Los Angeles Times

The lung, which he called his "old iron horse", allowed him to breathe.

From BBC

“We are always near our ‘iron horses,’” said Ivan, the pilot, who is back on duty but not flying until he fully heals.

From New York Times

Since the 1950s, America’s once great “iron horse” has suffered under the exhaust fumes of the four-wheeler.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• engine