rustbelt

A noun referring to a region in the United States characterized by industrial decline and economic decay.

Sense 1:

The Rustbelt, also known as the Manufacturing Belt or the Factory Belt, represents a collection of states in the northeastern and midwestern parts of the United States, primarily including regions such as the Great Lakes and the Midwest. It is characterized by a significant decline in heavy industry and manufacturing, resulting in economic hardships and urban decay.

Sample Sentence:

The closure of numerous steel mills contributed to the downfall of the Rustbelt, leaving behind derelict factory buildings and high unemployment rates.

Sense 2:

A colloquial term for a derelict or declining neighborhood, city, or area.

Sample Sentence:

Despite its vibrant past, the once-thriving city neighborhood has gradually turned into a Rustbelt plagued by abandoned buildings and crime.

Sense 3:

A figurative term used metaphorically to describe an individual or entity that has lost its previous relevance, prestige, or influence.

Sample Sentence:

The once-leading tech giant is now struggling to reinvent itself and avoid becoming a Rustbelt in the ever-changing industry.

rustbelt

Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Rustbelt