# rusted

/ˈɹəstɪd/ (US) · /ɹˈʌstɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rusted
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to become covered in a brown, flaky layer because of being in the rain or water for too long. It happens to metal like iron.

For teachers: to undergo oxidation, particularly the formation of iron oxide, as a result of exposure to moisture and air. Often used in the passive voice to describe the state of metal objects.

## Examples

- The old gate has rusted shut.
- The car sat in the garage for years and eventually rusted through the floor.
- The bridge's structural integrity was compromised when the steel beams rusted after the protective coating failed during the heavy monsoon season.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.