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Definition of ferrous

ferrous

/ˈfɛr.əs/
fer · rous
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ferrous Lexical Profile

ferrous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, consisting of, or containing iron (especially of metals and alloys such as steel and cast iron).

Example

"The recycling facility uses powerful electromagnets to separate ferrous metals from aluminum and copper."

2

Designating or relating to chemical compounds in which iron has a valence of two (oxidation state +2), as opposed to ferric compounds.

Example

"Doctors frequently prescribe ferrous sulfate supplements to treat patients diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

In chemistry, 'ferrous' specifically denotes divalent iron (oxidation state +2), whereas 'ferric' denotes trivalent iron (oxidation state +3); in metallurgy, however, 'ferrous' refers broadly to any metal or alloy containing iron.

• Rhymes for ferrous

• Nearby Words

ferox
ferret
ferris
ferrous
ferry
ferryboat
ferryhouse

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century from the Latin word 'ferrum' (meaning 'iron') combined with the English chemical suffix '-ous'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ferrous. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ferrous
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