climbing iron

noun

1. one of a pair of spiked iron frames, strapped to the shoe, leg, or knee, to help in climbing trees, telephone poles, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of climbing iron¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Kids learned Tuesday about what tradespeople do on job sites by using real tools, moving around sand in a crane simulation and climbing iron like Ironworkers.

From Washington Times

A chimney will be shown to you, prepared and swept in advance; you will find in it good climbing irons for your feet, and for your seat a little wooden board firmly stayed.

From Project Gutenberg

The guide, equipped with alpenstock and climbing irons, led the way, Richard followed him, and the hussars came trailing behind, with old Paul as rear guard.

From Project Gutenberg

Her gaze was fixed upon a stout man just ahead who wore climbing irons on his heavy shoes.

From Project Gutenberg

He was up a telephone pole, trying to do some work, resting in his safety belt and with his climbing irons safely fixed in the wood.

From Project Gutenberg