rubbing alcohol

noun

1. a poisonous solution of about 70 percent isopropyl or denatured ethyl alcohol, usually containing a perfume oil, used chiefly in massaging.

rubbing alcohol

noun

1. a liquid usually consisting of 70 per cent denatured ethyl alcohol, used by external application as an antiseptic or rubefacient

Word History and Origins

Origin of rubbing alcohol¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

“Shouldn’t we dip his stub into some rubbing alcohol or something? Don’t we have ointment?”

From Literature

She says Gillicut had his ankle washed out with rubbing alcohol.

From Literature

Anyone who sees the insects is encouraged to smash them or scrape the egg masses into a container with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol to kill them.

From Seattle Times

Pour one teaspoon of rubbing alcohol into the bottle and screw the cap back on.

From National Geographic Kids

Cold packs, antibacterial products, hair dye, rubbing alcohol, nail polish, hand sanitizer.

From Seattle Times