WordLens

dust

1 of 2verb
/dʌst/
Forms:dusts,dusting,dusted,dusted
1

to use a soft cloth or tool to clean and remove particles from the surface of objects, like furniture

transitive
  • She regularly dusts the bookshelves to keep them free of accumulated dust.
  • Before guests arrive, it's customary to dust the surfaces in the living room for a clean appearance.
  • The antique furniture requires gentle care, and the owner meticulously dusts it to preserve its condition.
  • Dusting the computer equipment is essential to prevent overheating and maintain proper functioning.
  • The housekeeper dusts the framed photographs on the wall to keep them looking fresh.
2

to rub or sprinkle a fine, dry powder over a surface to obscure or soften the outlines of a shape, often to create a specific effect or reveal hidden details

transitive
  • The artist dusted the canvas with charcoal to create a shadowy effect.
  • She dusted the old photograph with fine powder to give it an antique look.
  • He dusted the edges of the map to make it look ancient and mysterious.
  • The detective dusted the crime scene with powder to reveal hidden fingerprints.
3

to loosely distribute or scatter fine particles or substances over an area or surface

transitive
  • The wind dusted the fields with sand from the nearby dunes.
  • She dusted the shelves with confetti for the party.
  • He dusted the entire classroom with chalk dust.
  • They dusted the the clearing with ashes from the campfire.
4

to be in trouble, especially due to one's own actions or mistakes

  • He really dusted after missing the deadline for the project.
  • If you keep skipping class, you're going to get dusted with a detention.
  • She ended up dusting for not following the rules at work.