cast iron

¹

noun

1. an alloy of iron, carbon, and other elements, cast as a soft and strong, or as a hard and brittle, iron, depending on the mixture and methods of molding.

cast-iron

²

[ kast-ahy-ern, kahst- ]

adjective

1. made of cast iron.
2. not subject to change or exception:

   a cast-iron rule.

3. hardy:

   a cast-iron stomach.

cast iron

noun

1. iron containing so much carbon (1.7 to 4.5 per cent) that it cannot be wrought and must be cast into shape

adjective

1. made of cast iron
2. rigid, strong, or unyielding

   a cast-iron decision

Word History and Origins

Origin of cast iron¹

1655–65; cast (past participle of cast ( def ) ) + iron

Origin of cast iron²

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

The GMB union, which represents oil and gas workers and donates to Labour, said any government plans to boost wind and solar power should come with a "cast iron commitment to delivering quality jobs here".

From BBC

He said safeguards providing a "cast iron guarantee" on security would be set out in a new bill that will be put before Parliament to push ahead with the move.

From BBC

One specific example is using my grated weights or cast iron to get an even toast on bread.

From Salon

One is the flavor imparted from hot, well-seasoned carbon steel or cast iron, two of the most common materials used to make woks.

From Salon

At one entrance, a cast iron statue by Antony Gormley welcomes visitors.

From New York Times