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Showing results for rubbing. Search instead for rubbning.
Definitions

rubbing

[ruhb-ing] / ˈrʌb ɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
grinding
Synonyms
STRONG
crumbling crunching crushing disintegrating eroding granulating grating milling powdering pulverizing scraping shivering smashing
WEAK
bone-crushing
NOUN
abrasion
Synonyms
STRONG
chafing erosion grating scratching
WEAK
abrading scuffing
NOUN
application
Synonyms
STRONGEST
treatment
STRONG
administration
WEAK
administering applying creaming dosing oiling
NOUN
attrition
Synonyms
STRONGEST
erosion
STRONG
abrasion attenuation debilitation depreciation disintegration grinding thinning weakening wear
Antonyms
WEAK
building happiness strengthening
NOUN
massage
Synonyms
STRONG
beating manipulation stroking
WEAK
back rub chirapsia rolfing rubbing-down
NOUN
touch
Synonyms
STRONGEST
communication contact feeling taste
STRONG
blow brush caress collision contingence crash cuddling embrace feel fondling graze grope handling hit hug impact junction kiss lick manipulation nudge palpation pat peck perception percussion petting push rub scratch shock stroking tap touching
WEAK
taction
Antonyms
STRONG
failure loss
WEAK
lot

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Meeting up with friends, rubbing fabric between their fingers and the overall vibe of wandering through a bustling shopping center are experiences they can’t get online.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

Marc Short, the former vice president’s lieutenant, was less restrained in rubbing the decision in Trump’s face.

From Salon • Feb. 22, 2026

As the shoot unfolds, Clyde can be found affectionately rubbing Hayley’s hand, gently playing with the wedding band on her ring finger.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

The Lakers were down by nine when Doncic departed, rubbing the back of his left thigh and grimacing in discomfort and clear frustration.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

As much petting, rubbing, and grooming as my pony got, it was a wonder she had any hair left on her.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.