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
Philip, who is earnest and honest to a fault, chafes at the lie but soon realizes that he’s helping someone to live their authentic life, so he throws himself into it.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 21, 2025
Pimples or a rash in the area of the breasts or on the upper back, caused by a bra that chafes, is not clean or is made of material that is allergenic or not breathable.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 20, 2024
Which is why Meacham, gliding about Washington with an above-the-fray arrogance and the gumption to hoard credit, chafes.
From Slate ● Mar. 3, 2023
Enrique chafes at such talk, especially from Lourdes.
From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario
