Dictionary
Words, grammatical forms and meanings linked to the ontology.
rub down en · VERB
Pronunciation
Meanings
-
(idiomatic, transitive) To rub from top to bottom, e.g. for cleaning, stripping paint or massage.
We were taken to a light airy stable, and placed in boxes adjoining each other, where we were rubbed down and fed.
[1877], Anna Sewell, “Earlshall”, in Black Beauty: […], London: Jarrold and Sons, […], →OCLC, part II, page 101:
-
(dated, transitive) To frisk (search by feeling the body and clothing).
[…] "jumped him", as it were, and immediately "rubbed him down" with the view of getting possession of his weapon.
1931, Hargrave Lee Adam, C.I.D. Behind the Scenes at Scotland Yard, page 221:
-
(transitive) To grind, wear down, or wear away by rubbing.
Forms
Synonyms
rub away