rubbing

noun

rub·​bing ˈrə-biŋ How to pronounce rubbing (audio)
: an image of a raised, incised, or textured surface obtained by placing paper over it and rubbing the paper with a colored substance

Examples of rubbing in a Sentence

He made a rubbing of the old tombstone.
Recent Examples on the Web Visitors are also able to do rubbings of individual service member's names on The Wall. The Arizona Republic, 20 Feb. 2024 And, even if someone doesn’t experience one of these conditions, frequent eye rubbing can simply be a habit for some people, Chang told Health. Julia Landwehr, Health, 26 Jan. 2024 For instance, allergies can be a major driver of eye rubbing. Julia Landwehr, Health, 26 Jan. 2024 The collar is even padded to prevent unwanted rubbing and blisters. Ali Faccenda, Peoplemag, 10 Jan. 2024 While some fibers did come loose, there was no visible thinning or holes as a result of the rubbing. Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2024 The canvas material means there is no rubbing, and the high top keeps ankles warm and dry in this bitter rainy weather. Lauren Burvill, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Dec. 2023 Handle your eyelashes with gentle care: Be gentle with your eyelashes and avoid vigorous rubbing or tugging on your eyes or eyelashes. Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 3 Nov. 2023 To minimize any damage, use shampoos and conditioners that are rich with moisturizing agents and gently pat hair dry without excessive rubbing. Sabina Wizemann, Good Housekeeping, 8 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rubbing.' 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

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rubbing was in 1845

Dictionary Entries Near rubbing

Cite this Entry

“Rubbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rubbing. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

rubbing

noun
rub·​bing
ˈrəb-iŋ
: an image of a raised or indented surface made by placing paper over it and rubbing the paper with something colored
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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