lubricant

noun

lu·​bri·​cant ˈlü-bri-kənt 

1

: a substance (such as grease) capable of reducing friction, heat, and wear when introduced as a film between solid surfaces

2

: something that lessens or prevents friction or difficulty

a social lubricant

lubricant adjective

Examples of lubricant in a Sentence

The car's axles need more lubricant.

using humor as a social lubricant

Recent Examples on the Web

Expect more work happy hours with real NA options, more weddings with zero-proof bars and more brand campaigns that don’t treat alcohol as the default social lubricant. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026

Earlier this week, the Grammy-winning country singer, 38, launched her own line of personal lubricant called Drought Drops in collaboration with the women’s wellness company Medicine Mama. — Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 21 Aug. 2026

Key ingredients Hairball supplements for cats usually have some form of lubricant, such as mineral oil or petroleum. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 17 Aug. 2026

But the organization said most modern engine oils contain lubricants and additives that extend their life. — Keith Laing, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

lubric(ate) + -ant entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lubricant

noun

lu·​bri·​cant ˈlü-bri-kənt 

: something (as a grease or oil) capable of reducing friction when applied between moving parts

lubricant adjective

Medical Definition

lubricant

1 of 2 adjective

lu·​bri·​cant ˈlü-bri-kənt 

: serving to lubricate a surface or part

lubricant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance that serves to lubricate a surface or part

normally, the intestinal passage requires no artificial lubricant

—E. B. Steen & Ashley Montagu