rub up against

English

Verb

rub up against (third-person singular simple present rubs up against, present participle rubbing up against, simple past and past participle rubbed up against)

1. To touch something with one's body.

   She accidentally rubbed up against the painted door and got green paint on her blouse.

2. To touch another person with one's body in a sexually stimulating manner.
   • 1994, Samuel Becket, Molloy, page 75:

     Now men, I have rubbed up against a few men in my time, but women?

3. To touch a person's body in a friendly manner, seeking attention. (of animals)

   Tibbles the cat rubbed up against my leg, asking for a piece of my cheese.

4. To come into conflict with someone or something.