Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪ͡ənɪŋ bˈɔːd] (IPA) 
The spelling of "ironing board" follows the English phonetic rules. The word starts with the sound /aɪ/ as in "eye" and ends with the sound /d/ as in "dog". The middle part is made up of the sounds /r/ as in "red", /n/ as in "no", and /ɪŋ/ as in "sing". Together, the word is spelled as "aɪrənɪŋbɔːd". This phonetic transcription clarifies the correct spelling and pronunciation of this household item.
An ironing board is a commonly used household appliance that serves as a surface to iron clothes and remove wrinkles. It typically consists of a long, narrow, and cushioned board that is covered with heat-resistant fabric or material, providing a stable and smooth platform for ironing. The board is usually attached to sturdy, collapsible legs that can be adjusted to a desired height, ensuring comfort and convenience during the ironing process.
Ironing boards come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3 to 4 feet in length and around 12 to 18 inches in width. Some models include additional features like hooks or racks to hang freshly ironed clothes, and built-in sleeves or leg portions to facilitate the ironing of smaller garments.
The most significant characteristic of an ironing board is its heat-resistant padding, which prevents damage to the underlying surface and allows for effective heat distribution during ironing. The fabric cover atop the padding ensures a smooth ironing surface while preventing scorching or sticking of clothes.
Ironing boards are a crucial tool for achieving wrinkle-free garments, as the firm and stable surface they provide allow for smooth gliding of the iron, eliminating creases and wrinkles. They are widely used in residential homes, laundromats, and hotels, enabling efficient and convenient ironing of clothes, linens, and various fabrics.
The word "ironing board" consists of two main components:
1. Ironing: The word "ironing" comes from the Old English word "īren" which means "made of iron". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "īsarną". Ironing refers to the act of using a heated iron to remove wrinkles or creases from fabric.
2. Board: The word "board" derives from the Old English word "bord" which means "plank" or "flat piece of wood". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "burdą". A board is a flat, often rectangular, surface that can be used for various purposes.
Therefore, the term "ironing board" literally means a flat wooden surface or plank used for ironing clothes.
