Rusting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the reddish-brown flaky coating formed on iron and steel when they react with moisture and oxygen. Commonly used in everyday language to describe the process affecting objects like cars, tools, and structures.

• The old bicycle in the backyard is rusting.
• We need to paint the fence to prevent it from rusting.

A scientific term used to describe the reaction of a substance with oxygen. Often used in a technical, chemical, or biological context to describe how materials, including metals, interact with oxygen.

• Oxidation of the apple slices turned them brown.
• The car manufacturer uses special coatings to prevent oxidation of the metal parts.

A more formal term used to describe the gradual destruction of materials (usually metals) by chemical reaction with the environment. Often used in technical or scientific contexts.

• Corrosion of the pipeline could lead to a major oil spill.
• The company is developing new materials to resist corrosion.

A broad term used to describe the process of becoming progressively worse. It can be applied to various contexts, not just metal. It can be used to refer to the condition of buildings, health, or quality over time.

• The building showed clear signs of deterioration after years of neglect.
• He noticed the gradual deterioration of his grandmother's health.

This word specifically refers to the process where iron or steel becomes coated in a reddish-brown substance due to exposure to moisture and oxygen.

• The old bicycle was left outside for years, and it started rusting
• The car's underbody needs treatment to prevent rusting

Decay is used to describe the gradual process of decline or degradation, often in the context of organic matter or moral and social conditions.

• The fruit was left out for too long and began to decay
• The neighborhood has been in decay since the factory shut down

Deterioration describes the process of becoming progressively worse. It is broad and can be used for both physical conditions as well as quality.

• The building shows obvious signs of deterioration due to lack of maintenance
• His health has been in a state of deterioration since the accident

Decline refers to a slow or continuous loss of strength, quality, value, or importance. It can apply to physical objects, health, or even abstract ideas like business or popularity.

• The company's profits began to decline after the new regulations were implemented
• There has been a decline in public interest in the event