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.
This chafes against the restraint demanded by his current role, which has historically been carried out in humbler fashion.
From Slate ● Jun. 11, 2026
Saudi Arabia still chafes at the limits to its influence with the White House.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 21, 2025
Floyd instantly chafes at the hierarchies imposed in Jay’s household, and when the island is cut off from ferries and grocery stores are closed, the mansion becomes dependent on its cook to provide.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 31, 2024
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
The cold collar chafes my neck and makes the shivering even harder to control.
From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins
