Duster

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdʌs.tər/ (British) | /ˈdʌs.tɚ/ (American)

Definitions

• A cloth or brush used for removing dust from surfaces.
• A long, lightweight coat worn to protect clothing from dust.
• A device or machine for applying or removing dust.

Usage Examples

• She wiped the table with a soft duster.
• The cowboy wore a long duster while riding through the desert.
• The farmer used a crop duster to spray pesticides over the fields.

Etymology

Derived from "dust," meaning fine dry particles, with the suffix "-er," indicating an agent performing an action. The term has been used since the 18th century.

Synonyms

• Dust cloth
• Feather duster
• Overcoat
• Smock

Antonyms

• Stain
• Soiling agent

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdʌs.tər/
• American English: /ˈdʌs.tɚ/
• Australian English: /ˈdʌs.tə/

Historical Usage

Originally, dusters were long coats worn by horseback riders and early automobile travelers to protect their clothing from dust. Over time, the term also came to refer to cleaning tools used for dust removal.

Cultural Nuances

In Western movies, cowboys often wear dusters as part of their rugged attire. In households, dusters are essential for maintaining cleanliness.

More Information

Dusters remain an important item in both fashion and cleaning industries. Modern dusters include microfiber cloths, electrostatic dusters, and mechanical dust-removal devices used in various professions.