rub·bish \ˈrə-bish, dial -bij\ noun : things that are no longer useful or wanted and that have been thrown out. : words or ideas that are foolish or untrue. : something that is worthless, unimportant, or of poor quality. gem \ˈjem\ noun : a valuable stone that has been cut and polished for use in jewelry. : something that is admired for its beauty or excellence.