iron horse

noun

, Older Use.

1. a locomotive.

iron horse

noun

1. archaic.
   a steam-driven railway locomotive

Word History and Origins

Origin of iron horse¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

The lung, which he called his "old iron horse", allowed him to breathe.

From BBC

“We are always near our ‘iron horses,’” said Ivan, the pilot, who is back on duty but not flying until he fully heals.

From New York Times

Since the 1950s, America’s once great “iron horse” has suffered under the exhaust fumes of the four-wheeler.

From The Guardian

From their arrival in 1851, early settlers knew that hopes for a profitable future rode an iron horse.

From Seattle Times

The iron horse still rumbled through the tunnel when she woke.

From Literature

Related Words

• engine