rubbing

noun

rub·​bing ˈrə-biŋ How to pronounce rubbing (audio)
Synonyms of rubbingnext
: 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
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.
Rough rubbing can worsen conditions like eczema or psoriasis, Brod says. Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 11 Dec. 2025 Excessive rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2025 Harsh rubbing isn’t necessary—simply soak a cotton pad in the gentle formula and sweep away foundation, concealer, and yes, even waterproof mascara, with ease. Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 18 Nov. 2025 Outliving Michael includes a photo of a rubbing, done in black crayon on white paper, of Church’s gravestone in Naples, Florida. R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rubbing

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rubbing was in 1845

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rubbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rubbing. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on rubbing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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