drub

[ druhb ]

verb (used with object)

, drubbed, drub·bing.

1. to beat with a stick or the like; cudgel; flog; thrash.
2. to defeat decisively, as in a game or contest.
3. to drive as if by flogging:

   Latin grammar was drubbed into their heads.

4. to stamp (the feet).

noun

1. a blow with a stick or the like.

drub

/ drʌb /

verb

1. to beat as with a stick; cudgel; club
2. to defeat utterly, as in a contest
3. to drum or stamp (the feet)
4. to instil with force or repetition

   the master drubbed Latin into the boys

noun

1. a blow, as from a stick

Other Words From

• drubber noun
• un·drubbed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of drub¹

1625–35; perhaps by uncertain mediation < Arabic ḍarb blow, beating

Word History and Origins

Origin of drub¹

C17: probably from Arabic dáraba to beat

Example Sentences

Jack, life is a great schoolmaster, but why does it take so long to drub any sense into these blockheads of ours?

From Project Gutenberg

In the midst of his reflections the drub of the muffled telephone beat its insistent tattoo.

From Project Gutenberg

On the other hand, we extend the meaning of drub, the Arabic word for bastinado, to a beating of any kind.

From Project Gutenberg

Also, to beat or drub a person, a sense known to Shakspeare as well as to seamen.

From Project Gutenberg

And as for the men, what could they think, when the preacher could drub any six of them?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• clobber
• spank
• trounce
• wallop