1.
cast iron
a type of iron alloy with a high carbon content that is poured into molds and allowed to solidify; valued for its durability and heat retention
鋳鉄のフライパンは熱をよく伝える。
A cast iron frying pan conducts heat well.
この鋳鉄製の鍋は重いけれど長持ちする。
This cast iron pot is heavy, but it lasts a long time.
南部鉄器は岩手県で作られる伝統的な鋳鉄の工芸品で、急須や鉄瓶が有名だ。
Nanbu ironware is a traditional cast iron craft made in Iwate Prefecture, famous for its teapots and iron kettles.
Composed of 鋳 (casting; molding metal) + 鉄 (iron). Cast iron is produced by melting iron and pouring it into molds, as opposed to 鍛鉄 (wrought iron), which is hammered into shape. Cast iron is brittle but excels at heat retention, making it ideal for cookware.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 鋳鉄製: made of cast iron
- 鋳鉄の鍋: cast iron pot
- 鋳鉄管: cast iron pipe
- 鋳鉄製フライパン: cast iron frying pan
CULTURAL NOTE:
Japan has a rich tradition of cast iron craftsmanship. 南部鉄器 (Nanbu ironware) from Iwate Prefecture is internationally recognized, particularly the 鉄瓶 (iron kettle) used for boiling water, which is said to improve the taste of tea by adding trace iron.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 鍛鉄: wrought iron — iron that is hammered rather than cast
- 鋼: steel — an iron alloy with lower carbon content, stronger and more flexible than cast iron
- 鉄器: ironware — a general term for tools and utensils made of iron