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.
But at least the team has tapped a new head coach from the Lions, so maybe Detroit’s magic will rub off. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2025 Their long list of accomplishments rub off on Kennedy and Kiarra. Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 2 Feb. 2025 Set each boot inside a large plastic bag, which prevents any dirt on the exterior of the shoe from rubbing off onto other things in your suitcase. Rabekah Henderson, Southern Living, 16 Jan. 2025 The fun-seeking surfer, whose sunset silhouette on the famous movie poster defined a generation and whose fashion choices rubbed off on most everyone around him, parlayed his passion for waves into a lifetime of sand and sport on beaches across the globe. Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near rub off

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 14 Feb. 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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