rubbing off
The phrase "rubbing off" has versatile meanings, commonly used to describe influence or physical transfer through friction.
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Definition
B2Interpersonal
(informal)When someone's qualities, behaviors, or attitudes are adopted by another through close association.
Example
- His positive attitude is really rubbing off on me.
- Spending time with her has rubbed off some of her habits on him.
B1Physical
(general)The transfer of a substance from one surface to another through friction.
Example
- The ink rubbed off on my hands.
- Be careful, the paint might rub off on your clothes.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "rubbing off":
rub offrub inrub outwipe offrub downrub uprubbing oilrub up againstrubbing postwear offslip offbrush offcome offpalming offpeel offroll offpassing offtear offflick offride offhand rubfob offrack offscratch outrubbing alcoholburn off