andiron

[ and-ahy-ern ]

noun

1. one of a pair of metal stands, usually of iron or brass, for holding logs in a fireplace.

andiron

/ ˈændˌaɪən /

noun

1. another name for firedog

Word History and Origins

Origin of andiron¹

1250–1300; Middle English aundyr ( n ) e, Anglo-French aundyre, with the 2nd syllable taken as Middle English ire, iren iron < Old French andier, allegedly < Gaulish *anderos young animal (through known use of animals’ heads as decorations on andirons), though supposed relation between this word and Middle Welsh anneir, Breton annoer heifer, Old Irish ainder young woman, poses serious phonetic problems

Word History and Origins

Origin of andiron¹

C14: from Old French andier, of unknown origin; influenced by iron

Example Sentences

A pair of andirons or a fireplace grate is critical to help get air under logs and keep them from rolling out onto the hearth.

From Seattle Times

It had a screen and a pair of andirons, but the logs that lay across them were furry with dust.

From Literature

The andirons, shaped like enormous curling serpents, flank her, their glass eyes ready to glow with lit flames.

From Literature

The fireplace, composed of local glazed Pewabic tiles and fronted by bronze andirons, stood out for its unique intricacies.

From New York Times

It takes just one touch: The magic andirons are not hot.

From Seattle Times