lubrication

American  

[loo-bri-key-shuhn] / ˌlu brɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the application of a lubricant to diminish friction.

   Without adequate lubrication, the machinery becomes inefficient, even dangerous.

2. the act of smoothing over a difficulty.

   Let’s avoid further trouble with a little diplomatic lubrication.

3. Slang. the provision or consumption of intoxicating drinks.

   The groom-to-be seems to have availed himself of a bit too much lubrication.

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Other Word Forms

• overlubrication
  noun
• relubrication
  noun
• self-lubrication
  noun

Etymology

Origin of lubrication

First recorded in 1800–10; lubric(ate) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Explanation

When you grease the surface of something to make it move more smoothly and work better, you use lubrication. A bolt that's rusted in place might need some lubrication before being turned with a wrench. Friction can keep motors from running, screws from budging, and bicycle wheels from turning properly — lubrication is a technique you can use to reduce friction. Lubrication involves the use of a lubricant, a slippery or greasy substance that eases the resistance of the two surfaces. The Latin root of lubrication is lubricus, or "slippery."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

lubrication

Powertrain Naturally aspirated liquid-cooled 90-degree V4 engine, 1,158-cc displacement, counter-rotating crankshaft, semi dry sump lubrication; six-speed manual transmission with straight-cut gears and multi-plate clutch, with slipper action on overrun; chain drive.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 29, 2026

Methylsiloxanes added to lubricants are intended to assist with lubrication rather than combustion.

From Science Daily ● May 13, 2026

They’re ideally done throughout the day, so as to promote mobility and circulation, bringing blood flow and nutrients to the muscles and tendons, and increasing lubrication in the joints.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 7, 2025

But that inward gaze is less of a consideration than lubrication on the mechanics of getting Carol from Point A, i.e.

From Salon ● Sep. 29, 2024

There was a smell of lubrication and lathed brass.

From "The Martian Chronicles" by Ray Bradbury