rub off

verb

rubbed off; rubbing off; rubs off

intransitive verb

: to become transferred
bad habits rubbed off on them
carbon rubs off on your hands
rub-off noun

Examples of rub off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The worst part, perhaps, is the feeling that your own bad luck is rubbing off on your team. Tyler Foggatt, The New Yorker, 23 Mar. 2025 If Schröder’s security with the ball can rub off on Cunningham during the playoffs, while also not limiting his creativity, the Pistons could be a different version of themselves. Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025 If a fictional character's fear can seep through the screen to impact an adult, parents' distress can certainly rub off on their kids. Juli Fraga, Contributor, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2025 Striking employees were vocal about how they are treated and managed and the negative effects are bound to rub off on customers. Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rub off

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rub off was in 1869

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

rub off

verb
: to become transferred
the ink rubbed off on my fingers
a positive attitude can rub off on others
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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