Meaning of the word "iron rations" in English

What does "iron rations" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

iron rations

US /ˈaɪərn ˌræʃənz/
UK /ˈaɪən ˈræʃənz/
"iron rations" picture

Plural Noun

a small emergency supply of food carried by soldiers or travelers, intended to be eaten only when other food is unavailable

Example:
The soldiers carried iron rations for their long march through the desert.
We had to resort to our iron rations after getting lost in the wilderness.