What does rusting mean?
Rusting is the process by which iron or steel reacts with oxygen and moisture, gradually becoming reddish-brown and brittle. It most commonly describes metal deteriorating through oxidation: an old bicycle left outdoors may be rusting, while protective paint or oil can help prevent it. The word can also be used figuratively for anything gradually becoming impaired through neglect or lack of use. A performer might say that an old skill is rusting after years away from the stage, while townspeople may describe a disused public facility as rusting away. The expression is common in both British and American English. Although “rusting” is sometimes confused with “rustling,” their meanings are quite different: rustling describes a light, often continuous sound, whereas rusting refers specifically to corrosion or figurative decay.
To become covered with rust through oxidation, especially as a result of exposure to moisture and air.
"The steel frame was rusting where the paint had chipped."
Usually intransitive in the literal sense, although a person or process may also be described as causing something to rust.
To deteriorate through neglect, disuse, or lack of maintenance.
"The equipment had been rusting away in the old warehouse."
Figurative and often mildly humorous.
Iron does not rust merely by touching air: moisture and oxygen must work together to corrode it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rusting come from?
The word comes from Old English rūst, the name of the reddish-brown substance formed when iron corrodes. It belongs to a group of Germanic words for rust, including Dutch roest and German Rost, which developed from cognate roots referring to reddish-brown corrosion or discoloration. The present participle form “rusting” follows the ordinary English pattern of adding -ing to the verb “rust.”
Related word forms
How rusting is actually used
Most often intransitive, especially with metal as the subject. The figurative senses suggest gradual decay through neglect or disuse and generally carry a mildly humorous or critical tone.
Easily confused with rusting
Rustling refers to making a soft, irregular sound, especially like leaves or fabric, whereas rusting refers to metal being corroded by oxidation.