wrought-iron
UK: ˈrɔːt aɪən | US: ˈrɔːt aɪərn
adj. made of iron that has been shaped by hammering or forging
adj. (figurative) strong, durable, or resilient in character
wrought-iron = wrought<worked> + iron<metal>
- wrought: Past participle of "work" (Old English wyrcan), meaning "shaped by hammering or labor."
- iron: From Old English īsern, referring to the metallic element.
Etymology Origin:
The term "wrought-iron" emerged in Middle English, combining "wrought" (emphasizing manual craftsmanship) with "iron" to describe hand-forged iron. Historically, it distinguished hammered iron from cast iron, highlighting its malleability and strength. The figurative use ("wrought-iron resolve") borrows from the material’s durability.
The gate was made of ornate wrought-iron.
Wrought-iron furniture is both sturdy and elegant.
Her wrought-iron determination helped her overcome challenges.
Blacksmiths traditionally shaped wrought-iron into tools and railings.
The balcony’s wrought-iron railing had intricate floral designs.