A type of waterproofing grease or wax traditionally used on leather boots and shoes to make them water-resistant.
Likely from 'dub' meaning to dress or prepare leather, combined with a diminutive suffix. The term has been used since at least the 19th century for leather conditioning products.
Soldiers, sailors, and outdoor workers kept their leather gear supple and waterproof with dubbin, and the product is still made today—basically unchanged formula from Victorian times, proving some inventions never need improving.
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