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.
rubbed
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past participleof rub.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof rub.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
rubverb (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.
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.
And this is why Cortis's incessant calls to for people to put their phones down have rubbed some the wrong way - in a fan culture that's obsessed with capturing every moment.
From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2026
But Epstein courted influence and rubbed shoulders with prominent individuals associated with both parties in his efforts to rehabilitate his reputation.
From Salon ● Jun. 27, 2026
But the plans have rubbed some the wrong way.
From Barron's ● Jun. 26, 2026
Despite my rebelliousness, my parents’ work ethic had rubbed off.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 21, 2026
He rubbed one hand over his near-shaven head.
From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste
