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
ˈrəb-ˌȯf How to pronounce rub off (audio)
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.
Back in 2010, Pinault teased that Valentina’s French-speaking skills were rubbing off on Hayek, too. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026 Let’s see if that sense of style rubs off on his teammates next season. — Malik Davis, VIBE.com, 4 Aug. 2026 The Dodgers developed Hope and Ryan from minor leaguers into top prospects, and the Tigers hope some of that Dodgers development dust has rubbed off on Smith. — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026 Pair an experienced person with someone just starting out and then hope wisdom rubs off. — Kent Merrell, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 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

Rhymes for rub off

See All Rhymes for rub off

Browse Nearby Words

ruble
rub off
rub of the green
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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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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