soldering iron

American  

noun

1. an instrument for melting and applying solder.

---

soldering iron British  

noun

1. a hand tool consisting of a handle fixed to a copper tip that is heated, electrically or in a flame, and used to melt and apply solder

---

Etymology

Origin of soldering iron

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

Armed with a soldering iron and good intentions, Tuna paid tribute to what the fires took.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2026

At a hearing on Sunday, Bolsonaro admitted trying to open his ankle monitor with a soldering iron until he "came to his senses", court documents show.

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

In a video made public by the court on Saturday, Bolsonaro gave a different version of events: he said he had used a soldering iron on the monitoring bracelet out of "curiosity."

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

Using pliers, a hot soldering iron, scissors and other tools, Terrell Glenn and Cierra Milton taught participants how to assemble and connect a large button to a battery-operated toy.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 22, 2023

He could use a soldering iron and hammer two boards together so that the wood did not split and the nails did not bend.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller