Dusty: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'dusty' when referring to something covered with or full of dust. This is often used for surfaces or items that haven't been cleaned in a while.

• The old bookshelf was dusty after years of neglect.
• The road was dry and dusty after the long summer.

Use 'dirty' to describe something that is unclean, covered with dirt, mud, or stains. This word has a broader meaning and can also suggest moral impurity.

• His hands were dirty from working in the garden.
• The child wore a dirty shirt covered in food stains.

Use 'gritty' to describe something that feels like it has small, rough particles, such as sand or grit. It also can be used metaphorically to describe something showing courage and determination.

• The beach towel felt gritty from the sand.
• Her gritty determination to succeed was inspiring.

Use 'powdery' when something resembles or feels like fine, loose particles or powder. Often used for substances like flour, snow, or makeup.

• The ground was covered with a thin, powdery layer of snow.
• The makeup left a powdery residue on her skin.

Used to describe something covered in a layer of dust, often referring to places or objects that haven't been cleaned or used in a while.

• The attic was dusty, filled with old boxes and spiders.
• She wiped the dusty book cover before opening it.

Describes something that has existed for a long time, often used neutrally to indicate age, without necessarily implying neglect or disuse.

• The old house had a lot of character.
• He was fascinated by the old, historic buildings in the city.

Indicates something or someone that has been ignored or not taken care of for a long time, often carrying a negative connotation.

• The neglected garden was overrun with weeds.
• She felt neglected and unappreciated in her job.

Describes something or someone that is no longer remembered or considered important, often implying that it has lost significance.

• The old playground looked sad and forgotten.
• His contributions to the project were forgotten by the new team.