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.
rusted
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past participleof rust.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof rust.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
rustnounthe 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.
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.
"This is a Tour de France original bicycle," from 1979, the 73-year-old added, holding up a piece of a rusted frame.
From Barron's ● Aug. 20, 2026
But he also didn’t want to die an old man on a rusted prison cot.
From Salon ● Aug. 10, 2026
The researchers compare the damaged protein to a rusted key that no longer fits its lock.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 24, 2026
Nearby, a municipal flagpole is rusted, palm trees are dead, handrails are covered with stickers and a sign establishing a “Special Enforcement and Cleaning Zone” is covered with grime and graffiti.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 11, 2026
His relief gave way to a wave of nervous energy as they turned onto Javier’s street, and the sight of the rusted swing set sent a pang through Moss.
From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro
