rub (something) into (something)

rub (something) into (something)

To use a forceful rubbing action to apply some substance to a surface and cause it to soak or penetrate into it. The doctor told me to rub this salve into the affected area on my face for two to three weeks. I make a point of rubbing this waterproofing conditioner into my leather boots once a week to protect them from the rainy climate here.

See also: rub

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

rub something into something

 and rub something in

to cause something to penetrate a surface by rubbing it against the surface. Rub this lotion into your muscles. It will stop the aching. Try rubbing in this lotion.

See also: rub

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.