iron out

To solve problems or settle disagreements so that something can work well.

• We need to iron out a few problems.
• They ironed out their differences before signing.
• Have you ironed out the final details?

How to use it: iron something out (We can iron these problems out together.)

Similar words: sort out, resolve, settle

Common phrases: iron out problems, iron out differences, iron out details

To remove folds or lines in cloth using a hot iron.

• I need to iron out these wrinkles.
• She ironed the creases out of her skirt.
• Can you iron out the fold in this sleeve?

How to use it: iron something out (These creases are hard to iron out.)

Similar words: press out

Common phrases: iron out wrinkles, iron out creases

To make a surface flat or smooth, as though using an iron.

• The roller irons out small bumps.
• Pressure ironed out the ridges in the metal sheet.
• This machine irons out uneven areas in the surface.

How to use it: iron something out (Heavy rollers iron the surface irregularities out.)

Similar words: smooth out, flatten, level

Common phrases: iron out bumps, iron out ridges

To beat someone badly in a fight.

• He said he would iron me out.
• The gang ironed him out behind the pub.
• She warned them that her brother could iron them out.

How to use it: iron someone out (The bully threatened to iron him out.)

Similar words: beat up, thrash

Common phrases: iron out someone, iron out opponents

To kill someone.

• The killer planned to iron him out.
• They ironed out the witness before the trial.
• The gangster feared his rivals would iron him out.

How to use it: iron someone out (The boss ordered his men to iron the witness out.)

Similar words: kill, murder, do away with

Common phrases: iron out someone, iron out witnesses