Rust

/rʌst/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A reddish-brown oxide coating that forms on iron or steel when exposed to moisture and air.

The old gate was covered in rust after years of standing in the rain.

A similar coating on other metals or the process of corrosion.

The bike had patches of rust despite efforts to keep it clean.

A plant disease caused by fungal infection, typically affecting cereal crops.

The farmer was worried about rust affecting his wheat harvest this season.

verb

To undergo the process of forming rust.

If you leave the tools outside, they will rust quickly.

To impair in quality or ability due to neglect.

After years of inactivity, his skills began to rust.

Middle English 'rust', from Old French 'rustre', from Latin 'rustica'.

rusty skills

Refers to skills that have deteriorated due to lack of use.

rust belt

An area in the northeastern or midwestern US that was once industrialized but has experienced economic decline.

rusting away

Slowly deteriorating or becoming less effective.

corrode

To cause to deteriorate due to chemical action.

oxidation

A chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons.

To lose touch or become ineffective.

I've been away from the game so long, I'm totally rust.

Something that is old-fashioned or outdated.

That car is so rust; no one drives those models anymore.