rub down
To rub something or someone firmly from top to bottom — to dry, clean, or relax muscles.
Meanings
To dry an animal or person by rubbing vigorously with a towel or cloth.
"She rubbed down the horse with a towel after their long ride."
To massage someone's body, especially an athlete's muscles after exertion.
"The physio rubbed down the sprinter's legs before the final race."
To smooth a surface by rubbing it, especially in preparation for painting or varnishing.
"Rub down the woodwork with fine sandpaper before applying the primer."
Has several common uses: drying an animal or person with a towel, massaging a sportsperson, and smoothing a surface before painting. In equestrian contexts, 'rub down' specifically refers to grooming a horse after exercise.
Commonly used with
Forms
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