Ironclad - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Ironclad means extremely strong, secure, or unbreakable. Originally referring to armored warships, it now describes agreements, rules, or defenses that are rigidly enforced or impossible to dispute.
Definition:
Covered or protected with iron; extremely strong or unbreakable.
Synonyms:
Unshakable, impregnable, invulnerable, sturdy, rigid
Part of Speech:
adjective, noun
Antonyms:
Fragile, weak, vulnerable
Common Collocations:
Ironclad contract, ironclad guarantee, ironclad defense, ironclad ship
Derivatives:
Ironclads (plural noun), ironcladding (noun)
Usage Tips:
Use "ironclad" to describe something extremely strong or legally binding, like a contract or argument.
Common Phrases:
Ironclad agreement, ironclad proof, ironclad rule
Etymology:
Derived from "iron" + "clad," meaning covered with iron; first used in the mid-19th century for armored warships.
Examples:
- 1. The lawyer drafted an ironclad contract to protect his client’s interests.
- 2. The castle’s walls were nearly ironclad against enemy attacks.
- 3. Her argument was so ironclad that no one could refute it.
- 4. The company offered an ironclad guarantee on their products.