rust /ɹʌst/noun 5verb 5forms 3phrases 3 noun5 •The deteriorated state of iron or steel as a result of moisture and oxidation; it consists mostly of iron(III) oxide (ferric oxide) and iron(II) oxide (ferrous oxide).The rust on my bicycle chain made cycling to work very dangerous. •A similar substance based on another metal. •A reddish-brown color. •A disease of plants caused by a reddish-brown fungus (Pucciniales). •Damage caused to stamps and album pages by a fungal infection. verb5 •To oxidize, especially of iron or steel.The patio furniture had rusted in the wind-driven spray. •To cause to oxidize.The wind-driven spray had thoroughly rusted the patio furniture. •(figurative) To (cause to) degenerate in idleness; to make or become dull or impaired by inaction.My knowledge of Spanish has rusted over the years. •To be affected with the parasitic fungus called rust.I am sorry to say that, contrary to the majority, I have to report that the forage rusted rather badly. — 1902 •Of a black cat or its fur, to turn rust-coloured following long periods of exposure to sunlight.It's very common for black cats to rust during the summer. formsrusted · rusting · rusts Phrases with rust rust offto come apart, from the process of rusting. rust outTo rust completely; to become covered in rust; by extension, to break down over time and cease working. rust throughTo develop holes caused by rust.
