Rub

usgb/rʌb/
verb

To move one thing back and forth or around while touching it against something else.

She rubbed her eyes when she woke up in the morning.
Visual representation of "rub" - To move one thing back and forth or around while touching it against something else

Often appears as...

  • rub your eyes
  • rub together
Definition 1 of 5
Visual representation of "rub"
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Physical Action

Used for actions where there is direct physical contact, often involving friction.

Illustration for Physical Action
He rubbed the balloon on his hair to create static electricity.
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Convey Warmth

Indicates actions to generate warmth by moving hands on one's body or another's.

Illustration for Convey Warmth
She rubbed her hands together briskly to fight off the cold.
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Figurative Use

Sometimes 'rub' is used metaphorically to describe a situation causing irritation.

Illustration for Figurative Use
His constant lateness is starting to rub.
Visual representation of the word "Rub"

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