rub
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rʌb/
KK: /rʌb/
noun
Definition
A mixture of spices and herbs used to flavor food, especially meat or vegetables, by applying it to the surface before cooking.
Example
The chef used a special rub made of garlic and herbs to season the steak.
Conversation
I just tried a new spice rub on the chicken last night.
Oh really? How did it turn out?
It was amazing! The rub added so much flavor.
I need to get that recipe from you!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
balm
seasoning
irritant
Antonyms
soothing
pleasure
smoothness
transitive verb
Definition
To press and move something back and forth against a surface, often to clean or apply something like lotion.
Example
She decided to rub some lotion on her dry skin.
Tense Forms
Past: rubbed
Past Participle: rubbed
Conversation
I think I need to rub some lotion on my dry skin.
That's a good idea! It really helps moisturize.
Yeah, I always forget to rub it in after showering.
Root Explanation
Rub → The word 'rub' originates from Old French 'rober' (meaning to rub or scrape) and is related to the Latin 'rubare' (meaning to rub or to scrape). The word describes the action of moving one's hand or an object back and forth against a surface.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word 'rober' which means to rub or scrape — this helps you remember that 'rub' refers to the action of rubbing something.
Visually Confused Words
trub
roub
reub
grub
drub