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.
That example rubbed off on younger teammates like sophomore guard Kris Mporokoso, the only non-senior in Waubonsie Valley’s starting lineup this season. Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2025 The magic also rubbed off on other politicians, particularly Barack Obama, who won early endorsements from JFK’s daughter, Caroline Kennedy, and her uncle, Senator Ted Kennedy, during the 2008 primary season. Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 10 Mar. 2025 Hunt believes that Laughton’s character and drive to win permeated the room and rubbed off on the Generals’ younger players. Joshua Kloke, The Athletic, 8 Mar. 2025 Your brushes will be as good as new after gently rubbing off makeup residue on a tissue. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 3 Apr. 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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