rusty

Definition

If something is rusty, it is covered with rust or affected by it, usually because it is made of metal. It can also describe a person who is no longer skillful at something because they have not done it for a while.

Usage & Nuances

Common for metal objects: 'rusty bike', 'rusty key', 'rusty pipe'. Very common figurative use: 'I'm a bit rusty' means you are out of practice, not bad forever. For color, 'rusty' can also mean reddish-brown, but that use is less central.

Example Sentences