1. To press something on someone or something while moving it in continuous contact with them or it. You should only rub your glasses with microfiber cloths when you're cleaning them, otherwise you could scratch the lenses. The nursed rubbed the patient with a soft sponge to clean away the dirt from his wounds.

2. To cover someone or something with some substance by rubbing it on them or it. Next, rub the meat with the mixture of herbs and spices, and then pop it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The masseuse rubbed me with oil before beginning the massage.