lubricity

noun

lu·​bric·​i·​ty lü-ˈbri-sə-tē How to pronounce lubricity (audio)
plural lubricities
: the property or state of being lubricious
also : the capacity for reducing friction

Examples of lubricity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The bolt nose is cone-shaped for smooth feeding, and the bolt handle, head, and shroud, along with the gas shield, have been given a nitride treatment to increase durability and lubricity. Mike Dickerson, Field & Stream, 19 July 2023 Both Optimum No Rinse and Ultima Waterless Wash Plus+ are also highly regarded in the detailing community for their excellent lubricity and impressive versatility. Duncan Brady, Car and Driver, 8 Mar. 2022 And although some additives make important contributions to lubrication, by themselves don't necessarily have great lubricity. Timothy Dahl, Popular Mechanics, 18 Jan. 2018 The lubricity of Times Square could not have flourished without corrupt (or absent) police, and a great deal of The Deuce is dedicated to showing the many ways in which the NYPD made deals or turned a blind eye to the goings-on. Rachel Syme, New Republic, 8 Sep. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lubricity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French lubricité "slipperiness, lasciviousness," borrowed from Late Latin lūbricitāt-, lūbricitās "slippery nature, inconstancy" (Medieval Latin also "lasciviousness"), from Latin lūbricus "slippery, hard to hold, liable to lead to false steps, hazardous" (Late Latin also "morally weak, lascivious") + -itāt-, -itās -ity — more at sleeve

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lubricity was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near lubricity

Cite this Entry

“Lubricity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lubricity. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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