# rub elbows

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/rub-elbows
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To associate closely; to consort, mingle, or socialize.

## Examples

- They often rub elbows with famous people.
- At the charity gala, you have the chance to rub elbows with local business leaders.
- The young politician attended the exclusive summit specifically to rub elbows with influential diplomats and secure support for his new policy.

## Origin

From *rub* + *elbows*, first recorded in the mid-19th century. The compound suggests a crowd of sufficient density that individuals are forced into physical contact at the joints. The image describes the proximity required for social interaction in a confined space.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.