rubber
UK: ˈrʌbə | US: ˈrʌbər
n. 1. A flexible material made from latex or synthetics, used for erasing, tires, etc.
n. 2. A tool or device made of rubber (e.g., eraser).
n. 3. (Sports) A series of games or matches, especially in bridge or cricket.
rubber = rub<to scrape or erase> + er<agent noun suffix>
- rub (from Middle English rubben, meaning "to scrape or erase")
- er (agent noun suffix indicating "one who performs an action")
Etymology Origin:
The word "rubber" originated in the late 16th century, initially referring to a tool used to erase pencil marks by rubbing. The material itself was later named after this function when natural latex was discovered to have similar erasing properties. The suffix "-er" solidifies its role as an object or agent performing the action of rubbing. Over time, the term expanded to include the elastic material and its diverse applications.
She used a rubber to erase the mistake in her notebook.
The car's tires are made of durable rubber.
He won the rubber match in the tennis tournament.
Rubber gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
The factory produces rubber bands in various sizes.