flakes of rust
Metal's slow death
Small, thin pieces of oxidized metal that have separated or are separating from a corroding surface.
Rust forms in layers that eventually crack and peel away as flakes: Flakes of rust fell from the undercarriage when I touched it.
The phrase often suggests neglect or decay—something left exposed to the elements too long.
- corrosionChemical wearing away
- iron oxideFe plus oxygen
- oxidationLosing electrons chemically
- patinaSurface film from aging
- decayGradual organic breakdown
crumbling · falling apart · iron · metal · old car · peel · weathered · peeling paint · orange · red · brown · brittle · dust · chips · scale · eaten away · deterioration · wear and tear
material condition
flakes of rustpolished metal
Smoothed reflective metallic surface
mirror finish · chrome plating · fresh paint · protective coating · stainless steel
flake, flaked, flaking, flaky, flakiness, rust, rusted, rusting, rusty