oil slick

noun

1. a smooth area on the surface of water caused by the presence of oil.

oil slick

noun

1. a mass of floating oil covering an area of water, esp oil that has leaked or been discharged from a ship

Word History and Origins

Origin of oil slick¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

The water had oil slicks that, because of the currents, couldn’t have originated from the site of the notorious accident.

From ProPublica

Officials also had received reports of loud bangs—called in by fishermen—and an oil slick.

From The Daily Beast

Within 12 hours an oil slick is spotted, along with some wreckage.

From The Daily Beast

The blood of a 19-year-old girl spills like an oil slick over the football team and the school administration.

From The Daily Beast

If the winds begin to push the oil slick to the east, Florida's Panhandle could be devastated.

From The Daily Beast

The growing oil slick in the Gulf Coast is threatening more than the fragile ecosystem and economy of the Gulf Coast region.

From The Daily Beast

The oil-slick left behind by his wake was so heavy that, even in the failing light, it was visible for several miles.

From Project Gutenberg

With a little shuddering shake of his head he took his gaze off the blazing patch of oil slick, and turned his attention forward.

From Project Gutenberg