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

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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 lubricate Saliva also helps lubricate the mouth, which facilitates chewing or mastication. Amy Marturana Winderl, SELF, 8 July 2025 Water regulates body temperature and lubricates your joints. Rebecca Valdez, Verywell Health, 8 July 2025 This hydraulic fluid is used to lubricate internal parts of the power steering system. Keenan Thompson, USA Today, 19 June 2025 Estrogen plays a role in collagen and elastin production (proteins responsible for strength and resilience), hyaluronic acid, a major skin hydrator, and sebum, an oil that lubricates the skin barrier and keeps skin from drying out, says Yadav. Mara Santilli, Flow Space, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for lubricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lubricate
Verb
  • Meanwhile, lightly grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; set aside.
    Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2025
  • With a shiny, almost mirror-like glaze, and tender ultra-moist crumb, this recipe is well worth the pain of greasing every nook and cranny of a Bundt pan to make.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • When making thin-crust pizzas, avoid oiling or greasing the pan; instead, sprinkle some cornmeal or semolina to prevent sticking.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 27 Aug. 2025
  • High-carbon steel requires drying and oiling after each wash to prevent rust, so be sure to consider this when selecting your options.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lubricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lubricate. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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