rubbing alcohol

noun

: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropanol

Examples of rubbing alcohol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Cleaning Method #3: Rubbing Alcohol and Warm Water A final alternative is to create a solution that mixes one part rubbing alcohol with three parts warm water. —Shelby Wax, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2025

One easy way is to carry a small spray bottle full of rubbing alcohol to spray your pruners and saw. —Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 18 Jan. 2025

Think: rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, baking soda, and nail polish remover. —Christina Pérez, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2025

Spot treating with a cotton swap dipped in rubbing alcohol is an easy way to remove pests from African violets. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun

: a cooling and soothing solution for use on the outside of the body that contains an alcohol and water

Medical Definition

rubbing alcohol

noun

rub·​bing alcohol ˈrəb-iŋ-ˌ 

: a cooling and soothing liquid for external application that contains approximately 70 percent denatured ethanol or isopropyl alcohol