rubbing alcohol

noun

: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropanol

Examples of rubbing alcohol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Use a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove makeup from wool coats. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2025 For a deeper-cleaning solution, fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mix of rubbing alcohol and water; housekeeping and organization expert Amanda Thomas, founder of Moxie Girl, says the spray cleaner gives granite surfaces a nice shine. Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025 Omar said the tabletop fireplace involved in the incident was from the brand Rozato, which is fueled by either rubbing alcohol or bioethanol, according to the outlet. Abigail Adams, PEOPLE, 6 Nov. 2025 Pest control expert Georgios Liakopoulos additionally shared that the best rubbing alcohol to try is one with a 70 percent concentration, as the higher water content helps the alcohol more deeply penetrate the bug's shell. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rubbing alcohol

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rubbing alcohol was in 1902

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rubbing alcohol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rubbing%20alcohol. Accessed 17 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun
: a cooling and soothing solution for use on the outside of the body that contains an alcohol and water

Medical Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun
rub·​bing alcohol ˈrəb-iŋ-ˌ How to pronounce rubbing alcohol (audio)
: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropyl alcohol
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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