# ferrous

/ˈfɛɹəs/ (US) · /fˈɛɹəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ferrous
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

containing iron. You use this word to describe metals or minerals that have iron in them.

For teachers: containing or consisting of iron. Often used in technical contexts to distinguish iron-based compounds from non-iron ones.

## Examples

- Steel is a common ferrous metal used in construction.
- The laboratory tested the soil samples to determine the level of ferrous compounds present in the groundwater.
- In metallurgy, the distinction between ferrous and non-ferrous materials is fundamental, as the presence of iron significantly alters the magnetic properties and corrosion resistance of the alloy.

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