trusty

American  

[truhs-tee] / ˈtrʌs ti /

adjective

trustier, trustiest

1. able to be trusted or relied on; trustworthy; reliable.

2. Archaic. trustful.

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noun

plural

trusties

1. a person or thing that is trusted.

2. a well-behaved and trustworthy convict to whom special privileges are granted.

trusty British  

/ ˈtrʌstɪ /

adjective

1. faithful or reliable

2. archaic trusting

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noun

1. someone who is trusted, esp a convict to whom special privileges are granted

Other Word Forms

• trustily
  adverb
• trustiness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of trusty

Middle English word dating back to 1175–1225; see origin at trust, -y ¹

Explanation

Use trusty to describe something you can count on, especially if you've relied on it for a long time. You don't need a fancy bike—your trusty roller skates will get you to school on time! This informal adjective is perfect for talking about people and objects that are tried-and-true, even if they're a little worn out. If your friend shows off her brand new laptop, you could say, "I'm happy with my trusty old typewriter!" Before the 14th century, trusty meant "trusting." As a noun, it can also be used to mean "trustworthy person," particularly a prisoner who has shown good conduct.

Example Sentences

Midfielder Arne Engels is also injured - along with long-term absentees Cameron Carter-Vickers, Alistair Johnston and Jota - and centre-back Auston Trusty will face the final match of a three-game suspension.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

American defender Auston Trusty doubled Celtic's advantage before half-time, but Bologna fought their way back with goals from Thijs Dallings and Jonathan Rowe.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

Attack after attack was repelled by the Celtic backline as Trusty and Liam Scales stood up to the Bologna onslaught.

From BBC • Jan. 22, 2026

Defender Auston Trusty doubled Celtic's advantage before half-time, but Bologna fought their way back with goals from Thijs Dallings and Jonathan Rowe.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

I went nearer: 'I am the Trusty Eckart,' said the superhuman figure; 'by God's goodness, I am placed here as watchman, to warn men back from their sinful rashness.'—I pressed through.

From Translations from the German (Vol 3 of 3) Tales by Musaeus, Tieck, Richter by Carlyle, Thomas