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dust

Definition

  • noun: fine dry powder that builds up inside buildings on surfaces that have not recently been cleaned
  • noun: fine particles of matter (as of earth)
  • verb: to make (something) clean by brushing or wiping dirt and dust from the surface
  • verb: to make 'dusty'
  • often + 'off' or 'down'
  • synonyms: levigate, dirt, powder

Examples

  • ('US') He stood up and 'dusted himself off'. = ('Brit') He stood up and 'dusted himself down'. [=he brushed the dirt/dust off his clothes]

  • The police 'dusted' the table for fingerprints. [=they put a fine powder on the table so that any fingerprints could be seen]

  • I'll call you 'as soon as the dust settles' from the move. [=as soon as I am not busy with moving]

Movie quotes

  • (..) Its Black Gates are guarded by more than just Orcs. There is evil there that does not sleep. The Great Eye is ever-watchful. It is a barren wasteland... ...riddled with fire,and ash and dust. The very air you breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with men could you do this. It is folly. (..)
    2001 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring