Dross (?), n. [AS. dros, fr. dreósan to fall. See Dreary.] 1. The scum or refuse matter which is thrown off, or falls from, metals in smelting the ore, or in the process of melting; recrement.
2. Rust of metals. Addison.
3. Waste matter; any worthless matter separated from the better part; leavings; dregs; refuse.
All world's glory is but dross unclean. Spenser.
At the devil's booth are all things sold,
Each ounce of dross coats its ounce of gold. Lowell.