chafe
verb (used with object)
to wear or abrade by rubbing.
chafes
-
present tense formof chafe (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In Mr. Harris’s sensitive portrayal, Caesar resents his dependence on the martial acumen of Agrippa, who soon chafes at his subordinate role.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026
This chafes against the restraint demanded by his current role, which has historically been carried out in humbler fashion.
From Slate ● Jun. 11, 2026
Tucci’s scheming cleric chafes at the prospect of becoming the “Nixon of popes,” a line for the back of the class.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 1, 2024
Sherman, who chafes at the notion that his nonpartisan group works on Democrats’ behalf, notes that several Republican lawyers, former judges, members of Congress and governors have filed briefs with the Supreme Court backing them.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 4, 2024
He chafes at the idea of going back to the Netherlands.
From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman
