iron
UK[ˈaɪən]US[ˈaɪərn]
n
A strong, hard magnetic silvery-grey metal, the chemical element of atomic number 26, much used as a material for construction and manufacturing, especially in the form of steel.
n
A tool or implement made of iron, especially a flat implement with a handle which is heated and used to smooth clothes.
v
Smooth (clothes, fabric, etc.) with an iron.
Etymology
The word 'iron' originates from the Old English 'īsern' or 'īren', which itself derives from the Proto-Germanic 'īsarną'. This Germanic root is thought to be a loanword from the Celtic 'īsarnom', reflecting the early technological exchange in metalworking. The ultimate origin is uncertain but may be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root 'h₁ésh₂r̥', meaning "blood", drawing a metaphorical connection between the color of rust or iron-rich water and the color of blood. Over centuries, the word simplified in spelling and sound, shedding its final 'n' in some dialects before being re-established, to arrive at the modern English term for this fundamental element.
Analysis
The word 'iron' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It cannot be meaningfully segmented into smaller morphemes within modern English spelling.
Examples
The gates were made of wrought iron.
She forgot to turn off the steam iron.
He needs to iron his shirt before the interview.