Definition

Proper noun: - A historic U.S. Navy warship: "Old Ironsides" is the famous nickname for the USS Constitution, a heavy frigate launched in 1797. It earned its nickname during the War of 1812 when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off its strong oak hull, as if it were made of iron. It is celebrated for its undefeated combat record.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The museum exhibit detailed the legendary battles of Old Ironsides.
  • Old Ironsides remains a commissioned vessel in the United States Navy.
  • Many tourists visit Boston to see Old Ironsides in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Advanced Usage

• As a symbol of resilience: The name "Old Ironsides" is often used metaphorically to describe something or someone that is exceptionally tough, durable, or difficult to defeat.
  • Despite the scandal, the senator proved to be Old Ironsides, weathering the political storm.

Variants and Related Words

• USS Constitution: The official name of the warship nicknamed "Old Ironsides."
• Frigate: The type of warship that the USS Constitution is.

Synonyms

• The Constitution: (Used interchangeably with the nickname).
• The historic frigate: (A descriptive synonym).

Related Idioms

• "Like Old Ironsides": Used to describe something very sturdy or resilient.
  • This old truck is built like Old Ironsides; it just won't quit.

Noun

1. a United States 44-gun frigate that was one of the first three naval ships built by the United States; it won brilliant victories over British frigates during the War of 1812 and is without doubt the most famous ship in the history of the United States Navy; it has been rebuilt and is anchored in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston