rub off

rub off  {v.}

1. To remove or be removed by rubbing; erase.

The teacher rubs the problem off the chalkboard.

After Ann shook hands with the president, she would not shake hands with anyone else because she thought that the good luck would rub off.

2. To stick to something touched; come off.

Don't touch that charcoal, it will rub off.

Mary's dress touched the door that Father was painting, and some paint rubbed off on her dress.

3. To pass to someone near as if by touching.