Rustiness/ˈrʌstinəs/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Physical Change Indicates a visible change due to neglect or the environment, often negative. The lock showed rustiness from years of exposure to rain. Pro Tip 2/3Neglect Telltale Suggests something has not been cared for or maintained regularly. The bicycle in the yard had a chain covered in rustiness. Pro Tip 3/3Time's Effect Can be used to imply that an object has aged or deteriorated over time. The garden shears were difficult to use due to their rustiness.