Dust

n. [A-S., Icel., & L. Ger. dust; N. D. duist, O. D. doest, donst, flour-dust, allied to Ger. dunst, vapor.] 1. Fine, dry particles of earth, or other matter, so attenuated that it may be raised and wafted by the wind; that which is crumbled to minute portions; powder; fine sand; as, clouds of dust. Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. Gen. iii. 19. Stop!—for thy tread is on an empire’s dust. Byron. 2. The grave; the earth as the resting-place of the dead. For now shall I sleep in the dust. Job vii. 21. 3. A low condition. God raiseth up the poor out of the dust. 1 Sam. ii. 3. 4. Gold dust; hence, money; cash; specie; as, to come down with the dust; that is, to pay the money. [Colloq.] Dickens. To raise, or kick up, the dust, to make a commotion. [Colloq.]