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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Recent Examples of lubricate
Moreover, a policy of tough love toward allies could turn into mutually destructive hostility, and a superpower that regularly coerces its friends could wreck the soft power that lubricates key relationships.
—
Hal Brands, Twin Cities, 13 July 2025
The study suggested that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — which are released by sebum (oily secretions that help lubricate and protect skin) in the ear wax of individuals with Parkinson’s — have a certain distinctive smell.
—Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
Running it for at least 15 minutes a week (year-round) can keep your compressor lubricated.
—Charles Singh, USA Today, 26 June 2025
Gargle With Salt Water Gargling with salt water helps clear away mucus and reduce inflammation while lubricating your throat.
—Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 10 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lubricate
Hal Brands, Twin Cities, 13 July 2025
The study suggested that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — which are released by sebum (oily secretions that help lubricate and protect skin) in the ear wax of individuals with Parkinson’s — have a certain distinctive smell.
—Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
Running it for at least 15 minutes a week (year-round) can keep your compressor lubricated.
—Charles Singh, USA Today, 26 June 2025
Gargle With Salt Water Gargling with salt water helps clear away mucus and reduce inflammation while lubricating your throat.
—Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 10 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lubricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lubricate
Verb
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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
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Yes, subscriber numbers are important but these numbers can be greased via promotional activity or, as mentioned, just generally underpricing the service.—
Zev Fima,
CNBC,
21 Aug. 2025
Verb
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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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Lightly oiling the cutting board so nothing sticks will also make rolling easier, along with allowing yourself a few tries to get the hang of it.—
Gretchen McKay,
Boston Herald,
13 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lubricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lubricate. Accessed 1 Sep. 2025.
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