rusting

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun the formation of reddish-brown ferric oxides on iron by low-temperature oxidation in the presence of water
verb become destroyed by water, air, or a corrosive such as an acid
verb cause to deteriorate due to the action of water, air, or an acid

I think we saw log-chains enough rusting there in the desert, to reach across any State in the Union. — Roughing It, Mark Twain
They seemed to have become wedged in place, thus surviving the rusting of their former and probably metallic fixtures and fastenings. — At the mountains of madness, H. P. (Howard Phillips) Lovecraft
The store fronts danced, the rusting and discarded machinery on a side street began to move and come to life, to clatter and waltz about. — Space Station 1, Frank Belknap Long

rust

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