elbow grease

noun

Definition of elbow greasenext
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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Project organizers provide all the tools and supplies, and volunteers provide the elbow grease. — Libby Smith, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026 Many workers are on the hunt for a silver bullet for career success—but leaders like Griggs agree that old-fashioned elbow grease is the most effective way to get ahead. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 3 Aug. 2026 Worse Unlike most traditional stains that benefit from a little elbow grease, burn marks are best treated gently. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 2 July 2026 There are also a ton of discounts on cleaning gadgets like this Dyson cordless vacuum that converts into a handheld and this Swiffer PowerMop that can make hardwood and tile floors shine without significant elbow grease. — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elbow grease
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elbow grease
  1. effort
  2. work
  3. pains
Noun
  • Eco effort The property holds Green Key certification and runs initiatives such as rainwater collection for irrigation, reduction of single-use plastics, composting partnerships, and sustainable sourcing of food and beverages.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Chicago builds quantum hub The arrival of System Two is part of a broader effort to position Illinois as a center for quantum technology and microelectronics.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of effort
Noun
  • The specific references to the music of the ’50s and ’60s that Fagen so dearly loves highlight a central tension in his work.
    — Mark Richardson, Pitchfork, 8 Nov. 2026
  • Staff say that the sanctions have not hindered the court’s work, but this seems improbable.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 8 Nov. 2026
Definition of work
Noun
  • During the chaos, two people suffered minor injuries and a third had chest pains, according to Chronister.
    — Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Some wet their beds, experience chest pains, or cry out at night.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of pains

Browse Nearby Words

elbowed
elbow grease
elbowing
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elbow grease.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elbow%20grease. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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