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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
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
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Word History
Etymology
First Known Use
circa 1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1
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
: 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
More from Merriam-Webster on lubricant
Nglish: Translation of lubricant for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of lubricant for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lubricant
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