rub out

verb

rubbed out; rubbing out; rubs out
Synonyms of rub outnext

transitive verb

1
: to obliterate by or as if by rubbing
2
: to destroy completely
specifically : kill, murder
… somebody rubbed him out … with a twenty-two. —Raymond Chandler
rubout
ˈrəb-ˌau̇t How to pronounce rub out (audio)
noun

Synonyms of rub out

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Examples of rub out in a Sentence

aerial bombs rubbed out the oil refinery an elaborate setup to rub out rival mobsters
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Soak the garment in water and gently rub out the stain with your fingers. — Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2025 The News started a morning edition to rub out its competitor. — Tim Kiska, Detroit Free Press, 21 Dec. 2024 Apply additional pressure while attempting to rub out these stains, but don't go crazy. — Gia Yetikyel, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2024 But an Irish knock-on rubbed out a try for Jack Conan, and the second chance was turned over by Mann. — ABC News, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rub out

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rub out was in the 15th century

Rhymes for rub out

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Browse Nearby Words

rub one's nose in
rub out
rub rail
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Cite this Entry

“Rub out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rub%20out. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rub out

verb
: to remove by or as if by erasing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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