rub
verb (used with object)
to subject the surface of (a thing or person) to pressure and friction, as in cleaning, smoothing, polishing, coating, massaging, or soothing.
is rubbing
-
present progressiveof rub (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
Twelve months on, the 24-year-old is rubbing shoulders with the elite at Flushing Meadows, thanks to the stunning run to the Wimbledon semi-finals which has likely changed his life forever.
From BBC ● Sep. 1, 2026
Marshall’s effort on defense is rubbing off on her freshmen counterparts.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 19, 2025
His boorishness is rubbing off on the people who work for him.
From Salon ● Nov. 27, 2023
The idea of pairing a lighthearted fantasy about an American doll with one of the grimmest moments in Japanese history is rubbing many the wrong way.
From Washington Times ● Aug. 1, 2023
Natalie is rubbing her chin on her shoulder, her chin on her shoulder, faster than normal, as if she’s upset too.
From "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko
