ENGLISH
REFERENCE

iron fist

idiom
Meaning

Ruthless and usually unrestricted control.


Examples
SIMPLE

The manager rules the office with an iron fist.

CONTEXTUAL

The dictator controlled every aspect of the country's daily life with an iron fist.

COMPLEX

Although the company appeared democratic on the surface, the CEO governed the entire organization with an iron fist, allowing no dissent from his subordinates.

Anchors to
Related idioms6entries
  1. 01

    bad iron

    bad luck.

  2. 02

    fist magnet

    An annoying or angering individual; someone who compels others to assault them in rage.

  3. 03

    hand over fist

    Quickly or in great quantity, especially in reference to earning money.

  4. 04

    iron eagle

    An American military officer who has attained the rank of colonel but will not be promoted to the rank of general.

  5. 05

    make a fist of

    To do (something) reasonably successfully.

  6. 06

    strike while the iron is hot

    To act on an opportunity promptly while favorable conditions exist; to avoid waiting.

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