Gather dust Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To be left unused for a long time so that dust collects on it. Often used figuratively to mean something is being ignored, neglected, or unused.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and mostly used in negative or critical contexts. Used for things (objects, ideas, projects) rather than people. Common collocation: 'let something gather dust'. Often metaphorical—does not mean literal dust. Compare with 'sit idle', but 'gather dust' implies neglect.
Example Sentences
The old books have been gathering dust on the shelf for years.
basic
My bicycle is just gathering dust in the garage.
basic
The trophy started to gather dust after I stopped playing sports.
basic
That old guitar of mine has just been gathering dust since I moved in.
natural
I bought a bread maker, but honestly, it just gathers dust in my kitchen.
natural
We had so many plans for that app, but now it's just gathering dust.
natural