dust down
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Alternative form of dust off.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
These preparations are being dusted down and refreshed and will continue to stand their owners in good stead in November.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To demean or verbally assault; to dress down.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To clean (someone) off who has fallen.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “dust down” mean?
Alternative form of dust off.
Is “dust down” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.