rub off

verb

rubbed off; rubbing off; rubs off

intransitive verb

: to become transferred
bad habits rubbed off on them
carbon rubs off on your hands
rub-off noun

Examples of rub off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Plus, the make-up is completely fake and won’t rub off on their skin. Samantha Booth, Rolling Stone, 24 Nov. 2023 The sky is the limit for Stewart and sophomore Noah Thomas, and Smith brings experience that could rub off on the two. Grant Gaspard, Dallas News, 1 Sep. 2023 Kelsea Ballerini's country style is rubbing off on her boyfriend Chase Stokes. Sabienna Bowman, Peoplemag, 7 Nov. 2023 His approach, his personality and his competitive drive really rubbed off on the team. Andrew Greif, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2023 Charitably, the series offers some insights into what might be called Messi magic, and the extent to which an extraordinarily talented player can rub off on and influence those around him, provided everyone has the right attitude. Brian Lowry, CNN, 11 Oct. 2023 Amanda Morgan hoped some of the city’s stardust might rub off on her. Sean Williams, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2023 The two-time Pro Bowl signal caller is one of the most dynamic play makers in the NFL, and his skills have rubbed off on even younger quarterbacks — especially rookie Anthony Richardson. Chantz Martin, Fox News, 21 Sep. 2023 While Miranda and Charlotte had set up their teens to spend more time together so Lily's college ambitions might rub off on Brady, the rubbing in question was ostensibly more extra-curricular than academic. Jp Mangalindan, Peoplemag, 10 Aug. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rub off.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rub off was in 1869

Dictionary Entries Near rub off

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 6 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

rub off

verb
: to become transferred
the ink rubbed off on my fingers
a positive attitude can rub off on others
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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