lubricate

[loo-bri-keyt]

verb (used with object)

lubricated, lubricating 

1. to apply some oily or greasy substance to (a machine, parts of a mechanism, etc.) in order to diminish friction; oil or grease (something).

2. to make slippery or smooth; apply a lubricant to.

   to lubricate one's hands with a lotion.

3. to smooth over, as a difficulty or human relationship; ease.

   to lubricate the friction between enemies.

4. Slang.,  to provide with intoxicating drinks.

5. Slang.,  to bribe.

verb (used without object)

lubricated, lubricating 

1. to act as a lubricant.

2. to apply a lubricant to something.

3. Slang.,  to drink or become drunk.

lubricate

/ ˈluːbrɪˌkeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to cover or treat with an oily or greasy substance so as to lessen friction

2. (tr) to make greasy, slippery, or smooth

3. (intr) to act as a lubricant

Other Word Forms

• lubrication noun
• lubricational adjective
• lubricative adjective
• lubricatory adjective
• nonlubricating adjective
• overlubricate verb (used with object)
• overlubrication noun
• relubricate verb (used with object)
• relubrication noun
• self-lubricated adjective
• self-lubricating adjective
• self-lubrication noun
• unlubricated adjective
• unlubricating adjective
• unlubricative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lubricate¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Latin lūbricātus, past participle of lūbricāre “to make slippery.” See lubric, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of lubricate¹

C17: from Latin lūbricāre, from lūbricus slippery

Example Sentences

Usually Morot is working the mechanisms in the eyes and lubricating them — he can speak excitedly at length about “eyeball pivot” — while Tse is manipulating arms and doing a fair amount of hand-acting.

From Los Angeles Times

With the lubricated ground shifting, at times, nine to 12 inches a week, utility companies shut off electricity, gas and internet for hundreds of homes.

From Los Angeles Times

“They only constrict your blood vessels to decrease the appearance of redness, but they won’t actually lubricate your eyes.”

From Los Angeles Times

Butter also lubricates your mouth, which tends to compliment the dish's natural astringency.

From Salon

It’s necessary for lubricating joints, regulating body temperature and removing toxins from the body.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• grease