Rustbucket: meaning, definitions and examples
🚗
rustbucket
[ ˈrʌstˌbʌkɪt ]
colloquial use
A 'rustbucket' is a derogatory term used to describe a dilapidated or rundown vehicle, particularly one that has significant rust damage. It evokes an image of neglect and disrepair, often referring to older cars that are no longer reliable. This term conveys frustration or disdain for the poor condition of the vehicle. It can apply to boats, airplanes, or any mode of transport that is perceived as outdated and barely functional.
Synonyms
bucket, clunker, heap, jalopy, wreck.
Examples of usage
- I can't believe I drove that old rustbucket to work for so long.
- His rustbucket barely made it to the finish line.
- She's so embarrassed to be seen in that rustbucket.
- They decided to scrap the rustbucket instead of trying to fix it.
Translations
Translations of the word "rustbucket" in other languages:
🇵🇹 lata velha
🇮🇳 जंग खाई बाल्टी
🇩🇪 Rostbucket
🇮🇩 ember berkarat
🇺🇦 іржавий відро
🇵🇱 rdzewiejące wiadro
🇯🇵 さびたバケツ
🇫🇷 seau rouillé
🇪🇸 cubeta oxidada
🇹🇷 paslı kova
🇰🇷 녹슨 양동이
🇸🇦 دلو صدئ
🇨🇿 rezavý kyblík
🇸🇰 hrdzavý vedro
🇨🇳 生锈的桶
🇸🇮 rjav vedro
🇮🇸 rjóður fötu
🇰🇿 темір жастық
🇬🇪 ჟანგიანი ქოთანი
🇦🇿 paslı vedrə
🇲🇽 cubeta oxidada
Etymology
The term 'rustbucket' emerged in the early 20th century as a colloquial expression within American English, particularly in regions where cars began to show the wear and tear of harsh weather conditions. The word is a compound of 'rust', which refers to the corrosion that affects old metal, and 'bucket', a slang term for a vehicle. The metaphorical use of 'bucket' to describe vehicles likely arose from the idea of an old, worn-out bucket that is no longer functional, mirroring the state of dilapidated cars. Over time, 'rustbucket' has been widely adopted in popular culture, particularly in automotive circles, to highlight vehicles that have outlived their prime and are perhaps more trouble than they're worth.