iron out

verb

1. to smooth, using a heated iron
2. to put right or settle (a problem or difficulty) as a result of negotiations or discussions
3. informal.
   to knock unconscious

Idioms and Phrases

Work out, resolve, settle. For example, They managed to iron out all the problems with the new production process , or John and Mary finally ironed out their differences . This expression uses ironing wrinkled fabric as a metaphor for smoothing differences. [Mid-1800s]

Related Words

• arbitrate
• clear up
• eradicate
• expedite
• get rid of
• harmonize
• negotiate
• resolve
• settle
• smooth over
• straighten out
• unravel