iron in the fire

/ˈaɪən ɪnðə fˈaɪə/

/ˈaɪɚn ɪnðə fˈaɪɚ/

[phrase]

iron in the fire

[PHRASE]

a project, activity, plan, business, etc. that an individual is involved in

[iron] in the fire definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "iron in the fire" and when to use it?

The phrase "iron in the fire" originated in the 16th century and referred to the practice of blacksmiths heating multiple pieces of iron in a forge at the same time. The term "iron" is used metaphorically to represent a project or plan, and the "fire" symbolizes the energy and effort devoted to it. It is used to describe a situation where someone is working on multiple projects or plans simultaneously.

Examples

1. He has many irons in the fire, including a new business venture and a book he's writing.

2. The company has several irons in the fire, including a new product line and a major marketing campaign.

3. She's trying to keep too many irons in the fire, and it's starting to take a toll on her work and personal life.

4. She always has several irons in the fire, working on multiple projects at once to maximize her chances of success.

Nearby words

come to a grinding halt

a frog in throat

a good head on shoulders

not have a prayer

have a screw loose

have a shot at