iron lung

American  

noun

1. a chamberlike respirator, formerly used in the treatment of poliomyelitis, that encloses the whole body except the head and in which alternate pulsations of high and low pressure induce normal breathing movements or force air into and out of the lungs.

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iron lung British  

noun

1. an airtight metal cylinder enclosing the entire body up to the neck and providing artificial respiration when the respiratory muscles are paralysed, as by poliomyelitis

2. informal a gas container used in dispensing beer

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Etymology

Origin of iron lung

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Lane spent the next several months in an iron lung.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 18, 2024

"He needed a unique type of care. Not even professionals are trained to take care of a quadriplegic in an iron lung," says Philip of the huge responsibility that came with supporting his brother.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2024

Mr Richards had come into possession of two iron lung machines at a building clearance and he recalls how one day a paramedic walked in asking: "Is this the place I can find iron lungs?"

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2024

He helped Paul move apartments when needed, and serviced the iron lung regularly: "It was always a pleasure to be around Paul - he had a very upbeat and positive attitude."

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2024

Do you want to spend the rest of your life in an iron lung? they would say.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood