Rubbin

Rubbin is an informal spelling of the present participle of the verb rub, typically written rubbin’ in dialect writing. It appears in American English to reflect casual speech and rapid pronunciation where the final g is elided. The form is common in lyrics, dialogue in fiction, and signage that aims to convey regional or informal speech. The apostrophe indicates the dropped g.

In popular culture, the phrase "Rubbin' is racin'" has been widely associated with auto racing in the United States, especially in stock car racing. The slogan, often conveyed through bumper stickers, T-shirts, and media coverage, emphasizes that physical contact between cars is part of the sport. The phrase has been linked to NASCAR culture and was popularized in the late 20th century; it has appeared in films and commentary as a lighthearted nod to the sport's rough, competitive nature.

Linguistically, rubbin demonstrates a broader pattern of consonant cluster simplification in casual speech, where -ing endings are reduced to a quick 'in' or 'in'' sound. In writing, rubbin' is used to convey voice or regional tone, while the standard form remains rubbing.