Rub-up

Quick meaning: Rub-up is a noun meaning The action of rubbing, for example polishing or massaging.

Meaning

The action of rubbing, for example polishing or massaging.

More Meanings

1. The act of bringing old information to the front of one's memory.
2. (Caribbean) A party, especially one that is spontaneous and involves music and dancing.
3. (obsolete) An encounter (with someone).
4. (slang, obsolete) The act of masturbating.

Example Sentences

to do a rub-up

[…] Ben laid them [the knives and forks] side by side, counted them, and finding the number agree with his guests, said, “They’ll dow capital when they’ve had a bit of a rub up.”

1972, Dora Jessie Saint (as Miss Read), Tyler’s Row, Penguin, 1975, Part 1, Chapter 5, p. 51, ‘I should think all your lovely things get a rub-up weekly,’ said Diana, handing back the box. ‘Does anyone come to help you?’

1910, Joseph Conrad, “The Secret Sharer” in ’Twixt Land and Sea, New York: Hodder & Stoughton, p. 168, He was still lingering in the pantry in the greatness of his zeal, giving a rub-up to a plated cruet stand the last thing before going to bed.

Word Forms

• rub-ups
• rubup

Synonyms for rub-up

Depending on context, synonyms include review, revision.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include grinding, graze, rolling, tousle, pull, touzle.

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