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.
Will says that lead-by-example style rubs off on the club’s youth. Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 14 Feb. 2025 Butker has not shied away from embracing his faith, and Hunt said that has rubbed off on his teammates, including Patrick Mahomes. Ryan Morik, Fox News, 5 Feb. 2025 Alexander’s commitment to social justice eventually rubbed off on her descendants. Robert M. Marovich, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025 But at least the team has tapped a new head coach from the Lions, so maybe Detroit’s magic will rub off. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 6 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

Dictionary Entries Near rub off

Cite this Entry

“Rub off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20off. Accessed 25 Feb. 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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