Steel
/stiːl/
nounverbB1
Definition
Steel (noun) is a type of metal that is very strong and used to make buildings, tools, and machines. It is made by mixing iron with a small amount of carbon to make it harder and more useful. As a verb, to steel yourself means to get ready mentally to face a hard or scary situation.
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See It in Action
A strong metal made from iron and carbon
- •The bridge is made of steel to hold heavy cars.
- •Steel is used to make knives, cars, and buildings.
- •The workers melted iron to create steel.
To prepare oneself mentally to face something difficult or unpleasant (verb)
- •She steeled herself before giving the bad news.
- •He steeled his nerves and jumped into the cold water.
- •They steeled themselves for the long and hard journey.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "steel" like "metal," but much stronger and harder, used to build things that must not break
- ✓Picture a shiny, silver-gray sword or bridge made of metal that does not bend easily
- ✓It's the feeling when you get ready to do something hard, like taking a deep breath before a big test or a scary moment
- ✓Sounds like "steal" but with a long "ee" sound → imagine "steeling" yourself to quietly take strength inside
- ✓Imagine superheroes or warriors who have strong armor made of steel to protect themselves
- ✓NOT like "iron" alone (iron is softer and rusts faster), steel is iron with extra carbon making it stronger
- ✓NOT like "wood" (natural and soft), steel is man-made and very hard
- ✓As a verb, NOT like "avoid" or "ignore" problems, but to face them bravely by preparing yourself
- ✓As a noun, steel is a physical thing; as a verb, it is an action inside your mind or feelings
Try Other Words
- •Iron: a metal that is softer and older than steel (Use when talking about basic metal but not as strong)
- •Prepare: to get ready mentally or physically (Use when "steel" is used as a verb meaning to get ready)
- •Harden: to become stronger or more firm (Use when talking about making something stronger, similar to steel as a verb)
- •Brace: to get ready for something difficult (Use as a verb similar to "steel yourself")
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no prefix or suffix) — "steel" is a simple root word
- •Etymology: Old English "stēle," related to Germanic languages meaning strong metal
- •Historical development: Used since early times to describe strong metal made from iron and carbon
- •Modern usage: Commonly used for construction, tools, and machinery; also used as a verb to mean mental preparation
- •Interesting fact: Steel is one of the most important materials in modern life because it is strong and durable
Reflect & Connect
•How can the idea of "steeling yourself" help you in everyday difficult moments?
•Why do you think steel as a metal became so important for building and tools compared to other metals?
Fill in the blanks
1.The workers used ___ to build the tall skyscraper because it is very strong and can hold heavy weight.
2.Before the exam, she ___ herself to stay calm and focused.
3.Unlike iron, steel is ___ because it has carbon added to make it harder.
4.When facing a scary situation, people often ___ themselves to be brave.
5.The car's body is made of ___ to protect passengers in accidents.
6.You can ___ yourself by taking deep breaths before a difficult conversation.
7.Steel is a type of ___ that does not rust easily and is very durable.