Pronunciation

/rʌst/

Definitions

Noun

• rust: 1. A reddish-brown, flaky deposit that forms on iron or steel when exposed to moisture and air, causing corrosion. [E.g.] “The old car was covered in a layer of rust from years of neglect.”
• 2. A term referring to the process of deterioration caused by oxidation, as in metal or paint. [E.g.] “The fence needs to be treated for rust prevention.”

Verb

• rust: 1. (intransitive) To corrode or deteriorate due to exposure to moisture and air. [E.g.] “Iron can easily rust if not properly maintained.”
• 2. (transitive) To apply rust remover or protective coating to prevent rusting. [E.g.] “To prevent rust, the bicycle frame was coated with a protective sealant.”

Adjective

• rusty: 1. Characterized by rust or showing signs of corrosion. [E.g.] “The old lock was rusty and hard to turn.”
• 2. Having a slow or awkward manner, often figuratively. [E.g.] “His rusty memory made it difficult to recall the details.”

Phrases

• “Rust away” means to corrode or deteriorate over time.
• “Prevent rust” refers to protecting something from corrosion.
• “Rust-resistant material” describes a substance that does not easily corrode.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The garden tools were left outside, and now they’re covered in rust.”
• Verb: “Regular oiling helps to prevent the hinges from rusting.”
• Adjective: “The rusty gate creaked open after decades of disuse.”

Synonyms

• Corroded
• Oxidized
• Deteriorated
• Flaky
• Peeling
• Unprotected
• Slow-moving (figurative)