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 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 The arch support is superb and the fit is just right, with no rubbing, blistering or hot-spots. Samson McDougall, Health, 4 Aug. 2023 Cons: The rigmarole of being asked to choose a text, make a rubbing from it and then name a preferred brand of freedom, all before being allowed to sound the big bell, is gilding the lily. Blake Gopnik, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2023 The soft lining adds an extra layer of comfort to protect against any rubbing or irritation, which to me is a vital factor to consider for my delicate skin. Maverick Li, Men's Health, 2 Aug. 2023 Avoid any shoes that cause painful rubbing or make your toes feel cramped as this will only get worse with use. Good Housekeeping, 25 July 2023 Not only does this limit thigh rubbing, but a loose fit also keeps things breezy. Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2023 That persistent rubbing can in turn create puffy eyes. Catharine Malzahn, Good Housekeeping, 29 June 2023 See More

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 6 Dec. 2023.

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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