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. )