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

Lasting Lubrication: Teach children to lube their quad's chain periodically.

From Time Magazine Archive

Bearings and Lubrication 8vo, *1 50 —— Aerial or Wire Ropeways 8vo, *3 00 —— Sugar Machinery 12mo, *2 00 Walsh, J. J.

From Seasoning of Wood by Wagner, J. B. (Joseph Bernard)

Lubrication seems to have been a rather constant problem, particularly in the early years.

From The Wright Brothers' Engines and Their Design by Hobbs, Leonard S.

Lubrication was by means of the usual gear pump, and the piston and rod bearings continued to be splash-fed.

From The Wright Brothers' Engines and Their Design by Hobbs, Leonard S.

Lubrication of the passage with lard and traction of the limbs and head will usually suffice with or without the turning of the mare on her back.

From Special Report on Diseases of the Horse by Michener, Charles B.