English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word rub in English

What does rub mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

rub

US /rʌb/
UK /rʌb/
"rub" picture

Verb

1.

move one's hand or a cloth repeatedly over a surface while applying pressure

Example:
•
She began to rub her temples to ease the headache.
•
He used a cloth to rub the dirt off his shoes.
Synonym:
massagechafepolishscrubwipe
2.

cause to move with a continuous friction against a surface

Example:
•
The branches rubbed against the windowpane in the wind.
•
His new shoes began to rub his heels.
Synonym:
chafegrateabradescrape

Noun

1.

an act of rubbing

Example:
•
Give the surface a good rub to make it shine.
•
A quick rub with a damp cloth will clean it.
Synonym:
wipepolishscrubmassage
2.

a difficulty or problem, especially one that is hidden or not immediately obvious

Example:
•
The only rub is that we don't have enough money.
•
Here's the rub: we need to finish this by tomorrow.
Synonym:
difficultyobstaclehindranceimpedimentsnag
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Related Word:
rubbingrub inrub outbrass rubbing