Phrase guide

rub off on

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To be acquired by or transferred to (someone) as a result of regular exposure.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, transitive, usually

Qualifier: beliefs

Examples

  • The hippie way of life seems to have rubbed off on him, as he's a flower power aficionado.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: abfärben — (of behavior, etc.) to be acquired by or transferred to (someone)