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

Now the future of the party rests with its members, who will vote for the candidate they believe can restore Tory fortunes after their drubbing in this year’s general election.

From BBC

A senior figure says: "Let’s not forget we deserved the drubbing. We have been rubbish in government and rubbish as a party spending our time fighting each other."

From BBC

But a 49-14 drubbing of rival Oregon State has the Ducks back to feeling dominant.

From Los Angeles Times

Two years ago, the United States won by 15½-4½ in a drubbing that posed a question over whether the opposition going forward should take in the whole of Europe.

From BBC

Scotland have only lost once in eight games - after a penalty shootout in the Pinatar Cup against Finland - since their embarrassing 6-0 Nations League drubbing at home to England in December.

From BBC

Related Words

• clobber
• spank
• trounce
• wallop