The phrase "rub smooth" refers to the act of making a surface even or polished by rubbing it gently. Its IPA transcription is /rʌb smuð/. The "r" sound at the beginning is a voiced alveolar consonant, while the "u" is pronounced as the schwa sound. The "b" is a voiced bilabial plosive and the "sm" combination is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar fricative, followed by a voiced dental fricative. Finally, the "oo" sound in "smooth" is pronounced as a close back rounded vowel.
"Rub smooth" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of using friction or pressure to make a surface or object become even, soft, or polished by removing rough or uneven areas. It involves the action of rubbing repeatedly and consistently until the desired smoother texture or appearance is achieved.
When you rub smooth a surface or material, such as wood, stone, or metal, you are typically using a tool or your hands to apply pressure and an abrasive substance, such as sandpaper, cloth, or a polishing compound, in order to remove imperfections, raised areas, or bumps. This action helps in creating an even and level surface or a glossy and polished finish.
The term "rub smooth" can also be used metaphorically to describe the process of improving or refining something by addressing flaws, inconsistencies, or irregularities. For example, in the context of writing or editing, it may imply revising or polishing a text for better clarity, coherence, or fluency.
Overall, "rub smooth" encompasses the mechanical or metaphorical action of tirelessly working on a surface or object until it becomes even, soft, or polished, resulting in a more visually appealing, refined, or perfected state.
The word "rub" derives from the Old English verb "rybban", which means "to scrape or rub". The word "smooth" has its origins in the Old English word "smōth", which meant "even, level, or polished". In combination, the phrase "rub smooth" conveys the action of rubbing something in a way that makes it even, level, or polished.