rubbing

1 of 2

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

rubbing

2 of 2

present participle of rub entry 1

Examples of rubbing in a Sentence

Noun 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.
Noun
This pair has an identical strap design to Stewart’s style, made of a knit fabric to minimize uncomfortable rubbing and pinching. — Genevieve Cepeda, InStyle, 18 July 2026 An estate sale company is accused of selling dozens of Chinese scrolls and rubbings for as little as $45 apiece after allegedly relying on Google Image Search to value them. — Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 6 July 2026 Because the back is open, these Quince loafers feel airy and breathable while eliminating the heel rubbing that can come with traditional loafers. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 11 June 2026 Eye rubbing can also cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage. — Neelam Patadia, The Conversation, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for rubbing

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rubbing was in 1845

Phrases Containing rubbing

Rhymes for rubbing

See All Rhymes for rubbing

Browse Nearby Words

rubbidge
rubbing
rubbing alcohol
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rubbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rubbing. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for rubbing

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rubbing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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