Pronunciation: [fˈʌstɪnəs] (IPA) 
The word "Fustiness" is spelled with a "t" in the middle, despite it being difficult to hear the sound in some dialects. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is ['fʌstinəs], where the "t" sound is represented by the small letter "t". This word refers to a stale or musty odor, often associated with long-term storage or neglect. Fustiness can affect clothing, furniture, or even a room's air quality if not addressed properly.
Fustiness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being fusty. Fusty, an adjective, describes something that is old-fashioned, musty, or stale, often associated with a lack of freshness or cleanliness.
When used in the context of physical objects or places, fustiness suggests a pungent odor or a feeling of stuffiness resulting from the accumulation of dust, age, and neglect. It is often identified with the smell associated with items stored for too long in a damp or closed environment. For instance, an old book stored in a forgotten attic might have a fusty smell due to the accumulation of dust and moisture over time.
Beyond describing tangible things, fustiness can also be used metaphorically to indicate a musty or outdated quality in terms of ideas, attitudes, or behavior. It is often associated with conservative or traditional beliefs and practices that are considered out of touch with modern standards or current trends. In this sense, fustiness implies a lack of innovation or adaptability.
Overall, fustiness captures the essence of something that is old, stale, or outdated in both a literal and figurative sense. It is a term that conveys a sense of discomfort or unpleasantness stemming from a lack of freshness and modernity.
An ill smell from mouldiness, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "fustiness" is derived from the noun "fustian". The term "fustian" has its origins in the Old French word "fustaigne" or "fustaignier", which referred to a fabric made of cotton and flax. This Old French word, in turn, came from the Latin word "fustaneum", denoting the same type of fabric. Over time, the meaning of "fustian" expanded to describe a coarse or thick cloth.
The figurative sense of "fustiness" as a quality of something that is old, musty, or stale was later derived from the original meaning of "fustian". It is often used metaphorically to describe an atmosphere, smell, or behavior that is dull, stagnant, or outdated.
