rubbing

American  

[ruhb-ing] / ˈrʌb ɪŋ /

noun

1. an act or action of a person or thing that rubs.

2. an impression of an incised or sculptured surface made by laying paper over it and rubbing with heelball, graphite, or a similar substance until the image appears.

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rubbing British  

/ ˈrʌbɪŋ /

noun

1. an impression taken of an incised or raised surface, such as a brass plate on a tomb, by laying paper over it and rubbing with wax, graphite, etc

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Etymology

Origin of rubbing

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; rub, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

He had a habit of pulling at the lobe of his right ear, rubbing his nose, or digging at the wiry whiskers on his chin.

From Literature

I spun as fast as I could, and Opal paced in a little circle, rubbing her hands together impatiently.

From Literature

Mustaine says, rubbing a forefinger over his black knit cap that hides his leonine locks.

From Los Angeles Times

“Now,” he went on, rubbing his hands excitedly, “can you tell us where this island is?”

From Literature

As the shoot unfolds, Clyde can be found affectionately rubbing Hayley’s hand, gently playing with the wedding band on her ring finger.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• communication
• contact
• feeling
• taste