ironclad
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈaɪərnˌklæd/
KK: /ˈaɪərnˌklæd/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is very strong, secure, or unbreakable, often used to refer to rules or agreements that cannot be changed or broken.
Example
The company has an ironclad contract that protects its interests.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new policy at work?
Yeah, I heard it's ironclad and won't change easily.
I think having an ironclad policy will really help us stay focused.
Definitely! It will make everything more predictable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unbreakable
rigid
secure
Antonyms
flexible
weak
vulnerable
noun
Definition
A type of warship from the 19th century that has metal plates on its sides for protection.
Example
The ironclad was a significant advancement in naval warfare during its time.
Conversation
I just read about an ironclad warship from the 19th century.
Really? Those ships were fascinating and so powerful for their time.
Yeah, they had metal sides to protect them in battle.
Root Explanation
Ironclad → It is formed from "iron" (from Old English "iren", meaning the metal) and "clad" (from Old English "cladian", meaning to cover or clothe). The word "ironclad" refers to something that is covered or protected with iron, typically used to describe warships that are armored with iron plating.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'covered' ('clad') with 'iron' — that's why ironclad means something that is strongly protected or fortified.
Visually Confused Words
tinclad