1. the period in the history of humankind, following the Stone Age and the Bronze Age, marked by the use of implements and weapons made of iron.
2. ( l.c. ) Class. Myth. the present age, following the bronze age; the last and worst of the four ages of the human race, characterized by danger, corruption, and toil.
3. ( l.c. ) any age or period of degeneracy or wickedness.
[ 1585-95 ]