rub rail

noun

: a metal rail to protect against rubbing: such as
a
: a projecting steel or aluminum strip that protects a truck or bus body against damage by gliding contact
b
: a brass rail on a boat to take wear of the lines

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rub rail was in 1939

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near rub rail

Cite this Entry

“Rub rail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20rail. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!