Words / B1

DUST/dʌst/

Dust is a fine powder of dirt that settles on surfaces: a layer of dust; dusty shelves; dust the furniture (verb: wipe the dust off). Dirt is broader and often wetter or heavier; sand is coarser. Dusty is the adjective. A dustbin (UK) is for rubbish — not the same as dust. Collect dust means sit unused. Uncountable: not “dusts” for ordinary dirt.

Meaning

A fine powder of dirt that settles on surfaces.

Examples

• “The bookshelves were covered in dust.”
• “The old piano was covered in dust.”
• “Could you dust the bookshelf before guests arrive?”

Good to know

a layer of dust. Adjective: dusty. Verb: dust the furniture. Broader: dirt. UK rubbish: dustbin. Uncountable.

Near in meaning

dirt

New