drying oil

noun

1. any of a group of oily, organic liquids occurring naturally, as linseed, soybean, or dehydrated castor oil, or synthesized, that when applied as a thin coating absorb atmospheric oxygen, forming a tough, elastic layer.

drying oil

noun

1. one of a number of animal or vegetable oils, such as linseed oil, that harden by oxidation on exposure to air: used as a base for some paints and varnishes

Word History and Origins

Origin of drying oil¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

It contains large quantities of stearin and has a low iodine value, making it a slow drying oil.

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We have been told that drying oil mixed with mastic varnish has been, though not very recently, used in our National Gallery.

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One pint of drying oil, two ounces of yellow wax, two ounces of spirit of turpentine, and half an ounce of Burgundy pitch, should be carefully melted together over a slow fire.

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Paint the stairs, step by step, with white paint, mixed with strong drying oil.

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Peanut oil is not one of the drying oils.

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