drying oil

American  

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.

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drying oil British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of drying oil

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.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

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.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

Peanut oil is not one of the drying oils.

From Project Gutenberg