as in greasing
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 lubricating
The train ended up partially in the water, releasing diesel and lubricating oil into the river and spilling coal on the banks.
—
Christa Swanson, CBS News, 21 Dec. 2025
This time ensures lubricating oil reaches all of the engine's vital parts.
—Jalen Williams, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025
Christa Swanson, CBS News, 21 Dec. 2025
This time ensures lubricating oil reaches all of the engine's vital parts.
—Jalen Williams, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lubricating
Verb
-
Some recipes combine greasing and flouring the pan with parchment.—
Sheri Castle,
Southern Living,
15 Dec. 2025
-
Recipes often call for greasing the pan with a thin layer of fat (and sometimes dusting it with flour, cocoa powder or sugar) to help the cake release from the baking pan.—
The Washington Post,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
3 Dec. 2025
Verb
-
Mohapi adds that oiling a dry scalp works best before washing, not after.—
Iman Balagam,
Vogue,
8 Jan. 2026
-
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
Cite this Entry
“Lubricating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lubricating. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
