rust
noun
the red or orange coating that forms on the surface of iron when exposed to air and moisture, consisting chiefly of ferric hydroxide and ferric oxide formed by oxidation.
have rusted
-
present perfectof rust.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Nobody knows how, since the bell’s been chained up for such a long time that the metal links have rusted.
From Salon ● Jun. 18, 2026
You have to use your imagination a bit, Iron Age artefacts from 2,000 years ago have rusted or faded and are far from their original glory.
From BBC ● Mar. 24, 2025
Periodic bursts of water could have rusted iron-bearing minerals, releasing more hydrogen to the air.
From Science Magazine ● Jun. 25, 2020
Some Amazon reviewers and a Wirecutter staffer have reported that the Muji clippers they own have rusted after a short while.
From Slate ● Sep. 24, 2018
"Your hauberk must have rusted away, sister," he threw back.
From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin
