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
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.
Smith is hoping Franks’ trademark energy and grit can rub off on the rest of the special teams unit this summer and this season. Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2026 Your mentality and mindset rubbed off on those around you, and the employees in the shop. Greg Engle, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 Then gently rub off smudges and fingerprints with a circular motion. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 16 May 2026 Some researchers argue that may be a low estimate, noting the experiment did not replicate the friction caused by swimming, which could cause more sunscreen to rub off. ABC News, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rub off

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

rub off

verb
: to become transferred
the ink rubbed off on my fingers
a positive attitude can rub off on others
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