phub

[ fuhb ]

verb (used with object)

, phubbed, phub·bing.

1. to ignore (a person or one's surroundings) when in a social situation by busying oneself with a phone or other mobile device:

   Hey, are you phubbing me?

verb (used without object)

, phubbed, phub·bing.

1. to ignore a person or one's surroundings in this way.

Word History and Origins

Origin of phub¹

First recorded in 2010–15; ph(one) ¹ + (sn)ub

Example Sentences

The study sheds light on the negative effects of 'phubbing', the idea of snubbing someone in favour of your phone, which is known for its detrimental impact on relationships and mental wellbeing.

From Science Daily

He says that if we are on our devices while in the company of others we are 'phubbing', or ignoring someone in favour of our phones, which "hurts the relationship and leaves people feeling disconnected".

From BBC

Even when couples are face-to-face, the practice of “phubbing” — snubbing a partner by looking at a phone — reduces relationship satisfaction, which, in turn, may lead to less sex.

From Los Angeles Times

Psychologists have a name for this: “phubbing,” or snubbing a person in favor of your phone.

From New York Times

The Dr. Oz Show Eight women are found dead; the first tech rehab center for technology addicts; phubbing.

From Los Angeles Times