Definition of lubricatenext
as in to grease
to coat (something) with a slippery substance in order to reduce friction used a petroleum based machine oil to lubricate the gears

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 lubricate Chain The final check is to make sure the bike’s chain is properly lubricated and not overly stretched out. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 8 May 2026 And cheap Guinness pours only lubricate the mystique. Courtney Crowder, USA Today, 10 Apr. 2026 Jubail in eastern Saudi Arabia is home to one of the world's largest industrial cities, where steel, gasoline, petrochemicals, lubricating oil and chemical fertilizers are produced. CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026 Phthalates also help lubricate substances and carry fragrances in personal care products, including deodorants; nail polishes; perfumes; hair gels, sprays or shampoos; soaps; and body lotions. Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lubricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lubricate
Verb
  • Proponents hope the move – also known as the PhilAtom Law – will boost public trust and grease the wheels of foreign investment.
    Lorela U. Sandoval, Christian Science Monitor, 25 June 2026
  • Small strawberries, stems removed and halved Directions Lightly grease a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
    Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Warm Wood with Brushed Brass Probably the most obvious sign your kitchen is not a member of Generation Alpha is warm wood cabinetry and brushed or oiled brass hardware, especially if both elements feature highly decorative details.
    Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 June 2026
  • Cavallari posted a clip of her and her oiled-up, bronzed six-pack in action on Instagram.
    Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 29 May 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lubricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lubricate. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on lubricate

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster