rubbing alcohol

noun

: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropanol

Examples of rubbing alcohol 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.
Before applying rubbing alcohol or acetone, test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the garment, such as an inside seam, to check for colorfastness, Romine says. Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 7 Feb. 2026 For garden tool use, buy 70% strength rubbing alcohol. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Feb. 2026 How to make your own deicing solution To make your own de-icing tool, AAA says to mix one part isopropyl, or rubbing alcohol, and two parts water in a spray bottle. Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 28 Jan. 2026 Make sure to disinfect any tools between cuts by wiping them with rubbing alcohol to prevent spreading disease. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rubbing alcohol

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rubbing alcohol was in 1902

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Cite this Entry

“Rubbing alcohol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rubbing%20alcohol. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun
: a cooling and soothing solution for use on the outside of the body that contains an alcohol and water

Medical Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun
rub·​bing alcohol ˈrəb-iŋ-ˌ How to pronounce rubbing alcohol (audio)
: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropyl alcohol
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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