Stub out

Pro Tip 1/3

Physical Action

The phrase involves a physical action, usually crushing the cigarette's lit end against an ashtray or other surface.

After one last puff, she stubbed out the cigarette on the ashtray.

Pro Tip 2/3

Sudden Interruption

'Stubbing out' implies an abrupt end, as if the smoker decides to stop smoking immediately.

He abruptly stubbed out his smoke and rushed to answer the door.

Pro Tip 3/3

Finality

It conveys that the cigarette will no longer be used; it is the final action of a smoking session.

Finishing his break, he stubbed out his cigar and threw it away.