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.
Arn’s earnest philosophy starts to rub off on Grainier, wondering aloud about the cosmic stitching of the universe. Damon Wise, Deadline, 8 Nov. 2025 Cox, for his part, previously suggested that Day-Lewis' immersive acting process was partly responsible for the three-time Oscar winner's hiatus from acting—and that the acting style rubbed off on Strong, 46. Tommy McArdle, PEOPLE, 3 Nov. 2025 Daniels has made an impact beyond jumping to the top of the depth chart; his attitude rubs off on everybody. Cameron Teague Robinson, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 That impact rubbed off on his teammates. Tim Crowley, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Oct. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 13 Nov. 2025.

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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