ELBOW GREASE Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

elbow grease

noun

Definition of elbow grease

as in effort

the active use of energy in producing a result with a little polish and a lot of elbow grease, I was able to make the old silver teapot shine again

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of elbow grease Save yourself time and elbow grease by opting for slate, wood, or vinyl flooring that is water-resistant and easy to wipe off. — Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026 But the plumbing problem isn't just a question of a plunger and some elbow grease. — Steve Walsh, NPR, 4 June 2026 If a little elbow grease is all that is required, a task will be accomplished. — Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Forget pluck, elbow grease and a little old-fashioned hard work. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for elbow grease

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elbow grease

Noun

Bellingham deserves a mention, too; his tireless running in-behind defences has created space for Kane all through the tournament, while his colossal defensive efforts have helped to maintain balance across the team.

— Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 11 July 2026
The organization is a main backer of the measure and has supported efforts in other states to prohibit individualized prices for people based on certain personal information.

— Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 11 July 2026

Definition of effort

Noun

To minimize risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises incorporating frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

— CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2026
The hours between finishing work for the day and going out to dinner are the calm before the storm.

— Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 14 July 2026

Definition of work

Noun

Having witnessed centuries of religious warfare in Europe, when millions were killed for their beliefs, the framers took pains to make sure nothing like that would happen here.

— Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Perhaps second only to getting sunburned through your favorite white dress, the greatest casualty of summer fashion is the aches and pains brought on by your cutest but least supportive shoes.

— Annie Blackman, InStyle, 4 July 2026

Definition of pains

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elbowed

elbow grease

elbowing

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Style

“Elbow grease.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elbow%20grease. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of elbow grease

noun

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