as in headache
something that is a source of irritation
even what seems to be a dream job usually turns out to have its fair share of rubs
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in to wear
to damage or diminish by continued friction
the brake pads were rubbed away as a result of years of use
Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in to sand
to make smooth by friction
the furniture restorer rubbed the board perfectly smooth with sandpaper
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in to polish
to make smooth or glossy usually by repeatedly applying surface pressure
the butler rubbed the silver tea set until it gleamed
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of rub
Heather Riske,
Better Homes & Gardens,
14 June 2026
The post-wash rub will help the oil build up over time, which keeps the pan non-stick and from rusting.
—
Katherine McLaughlin,
Architectural Digest,
4 June 2026
H.d. Angel,
Pitchfork,
16 June 2026
Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar (to express the oils).
—
Sarah Martens,
Better Homes & Gardens,
14 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for rub
Noun
Use it to make your next barbecue rub or rim the glass of a Margarita, and see how even a small dose can magnify the sweetness of fresh watermelon.
—
Heather Riske,
Better Homes & Gardens,
14 June 2026
The post-wash rub will help the oil build up over time, which keeps the pan non-stick and from rusting.
—
Katherine McLaughlin,
Architectural Digest,
4 June 2026
Verb
Every texture is an independent agent with its own membrane in the mix; percussion rubs and scrapes against your attention, while mutating synth patches burble in the periphery.
—
H.d. Angel,
Pitchfork,
16 June 2026
Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar (to express the oils).
—
Sarah Martens,
Better Homes & Gardens,
14 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for rub
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rub
Noun
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That’s when the real headache for businesses began, as customs checks, border controls and reams of paperwork came into force.
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But the move enabled Florida to lock in what will be one of the best top-six forward groups in the league, slotting Brady Tkachuck into the left wing spot on the second line alongside center Sam Bennett and right wing Matthew Tkachuk that will cause opponents major headaches.
Verb
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The high-quality dress can be worn all summer long, in playful hues like white and green.
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The key to modernizing the pinkish-orange color in 2026 is to wear it in loose, easy silhouettes.
Verb
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Questlove is too thoughtful a filmmaker to sand down the rough edges.
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So that’s a long time for the edges to get sanded off and turned into these happy folkloric stories.
Verb
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For dressier occasions, platform sandals like Martha Stewart's go-to style offer comfort, support, and polish all in one.
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Through processing that polishes the individual wool fibers, the technology allows wool to have more luster, a softer hand feel, drape and elastic recovery.
Noun
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Every single product is impeccable; the only thorn in any of their sides is the admittedly high price point.
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The match was set, and now Rhodes will defend the title against the two thorns in his side since before Clash in Italy.
Verb
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That pressure erodes well-being, undermines family life, and disproportionately impacts working parents and caregivers.
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Starmer is leaving after two years in office marred by missteps and judgment errors that eroded his standing with his party and the public.
Verb
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Miami ground its way to two NBA Finals and a conference finals in the last seven seasons through a mix of elite player development, coach Erik Spoelstra’s wizardry, #Heatculture and a soft conference, but this is something entirely different.
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Vozinha’s two decades grinding through clubs in Portugal, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus, and Slovakia; teammates who play their club football across Europe and North America, from Villarreal and Benfica to Major League Soccer.
Verb
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The formula uses argan oil, amino acids, and keratin-like proteins to smooth split ends, strengthen the cuticle, and boost shine.
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If wrinkles and uneven skin texture are a concern, Korean serums can help smooth your complexion.
Cite this Entry
“Rub.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rub. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
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