Crossword Genius

Trotters supported animal home - after altruist, essentially gets out of practice (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rusty

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'out of practice' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for rusty that I've seen before include "showing sign of inactivity?" , "(Of iron) affected by damp" , "(Of iron) corroded" , "Stiff with age" , "Impaired through lack of use" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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