Someone rubbed one off in the elevator
This image shows a close-up of an elevator control panel with floor buttons for the second, third, and fourth floors. The buttons are lit to indicate the floors selected. The humor in this picture arises from the text above the image, which says "Someone rubbed one off in the elevator," and the accompanying visual pun.
At first glance, one might interpret the text as referencing an inappropriate or lewd action within the elevator. However, upon closer examination of the buttons, it becomes clear that the joke lies in the worn appearance of the button for the first floor, which is not visible in the image but is implied to be there. The number "1" has been "rubbed off" due to frequent use, thus the play on words.
Why do people find it funny? The joke is based on a double entendre. The phrase "rubbed one off" typically carries a sexual connotation but is used here in a literal sense, suggesting that the number one on the button has been physically worn away or "rubbed off" due to repeated pressing by elevator users.
This kind of humor is effective because it subverts expectations. The reader is set up to think something risqué or inappropriate has occurred, only to find out the statement is about routine wear and tear. This bait-and-switch is a common comedic technique, providing a twist that can lead to amusement or relief.
The innocent wear of the "1" button becomes the vehicle for an unexpected, mildly scandalous joke. This Someone rubbed one off in the elevator
