ironbound

adj

Etymology: From iron + bound.

1. Bound with iron, ironclad.
2. Rugged.

   “an ironbound coast”

   “He rose and went down to the kitchen, where he knew a fire was burning, and there the terrified servants were all assembled, all agreeing, as the blast came roaring down the chimney, they never had witnessed such a storm, and between the gusts, breathing shuddering prayers for those who were “out at sea that night.” The vicinity of Melmoth’s house to what seamen call an iron-bound coast, gave a dreadful sincerity to their prayers and their fears.”

3. Rigid, unyielding.

   “ironbound traditions”