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Rubbed in when auditioned (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

applied

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This could be a double definition.

'rubbed' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

'when auditioned' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I don't see how they can define each other.

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for applied that I've seen before include "Type of science" , "Turned" , "Put into service, made work" , "Went for university place" , "sort of maths" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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