lubricant

noun

lu·​bri·​cant ˈlü-bri-kənt How to pronounce lubricant (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Schneider allegedly was unaware of the pivotal scene in which Brando’s character anally rapes her character using a stick of butter as a lubricant. Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2024 In the 1972 erotic drama, Brando’s Paul rapes Schneider’s Jeanne using a stick of butter as a lubricant. Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 4 Nov. 2024 Hello Cake also acquired personal lubricants maker Trigg Laboratories — owner of the Wet and Turn On brands — funded with Series B proceeds and existing cash, Morris says. Kimberly Chin, Axios, 15 Oct. 2024 Step 3: Hand Wash Do not place the garment in the washing machine since water displacement lubricants can be flammable and residue may remain. Tamara Gane, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for lubricant 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lubricant was circa 1828

Dictionary Entries Near lubricant

Cite this Entry

“Lubricant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lubricant. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

lubricant

noun
lu·​bri·​cant ˈlü-bri-kənt How to pronounce lubricant (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce lubricant (audio)
: 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 lubricantE. B. Steen & Ashley Montagu

More from Merriam-Webster on lubricant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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