1.
rust (oxidation on metal)
The reddish-brown coating that forms on iron or steel when exposed to moisture and air.
錆 refers to the oxidation that forms on metal surfaces, especially iron and steel when exposed to moisture.
Common expressions
- 錆がつく: to become rusty
- 錆が出る: rust appears
- 錆を落とす: to remove rust
- 錆止め: rust prevention/rust inhibitor
- 錆だらけ: covered in rust
Forms
錆びる is the verb meaning 'to rust.' Example: 鉄が錆びた (the iron rusted).
Types of rust
- 赤錆: red rust (iron oxide, the most common type)
- 青錆: verdigris (green patina on copper or bronze)
- 黒錆: black rust (stable oxide, sometimes protective)