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oil

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verb

as in to grease
to coat (something) with a slippery substance in order to reduce friction if you oil the machinery on a regular basis, it will operate more efficiently

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 oil
Noun
As tensions in the Middle East eased, oil prices plunged, interest rates declined, and stocks surged. Jeff Marks, CNBC, 27 June 2025 The measure also requires the state, when considering future oil permits, to better evaluate how potential pollution from the extraction could affect nearby shorelines, wildlife and any potential costs for restoration, according to a House bill analysis. Emily L. Mahoney, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025
Verb
There’s no evidence that the seed oils themselves are responsible for poor health outcomes, experts said. Jonel Aleccia, Chicago Tribune, 7 Mar. 2025 Her glowing and freshly oiled skin effortlessly catches the light, playing off her lacquered purple lips and vivid green eyelids for a look that’s equal parts daring and divine. Mecca Pryor, Essence, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oil
Noun
  • Although the reviews were rave, the paintings also evoked some feelings of remorse.
    Steve Hartman, CBS News, 27 June 2025
  • The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is nearing completion of its own new Brutalist building, designed by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, 82, to house the permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and other works of art.
    Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • Tips For Making Aggression Cookies Fox's original recipe strictly specifies that there is no need to grease the baking sheet, and this recipe is the same.
    Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 12 June 2025
  • The job is demanding: wheels must be inspected and greased, accidents like a broken carriage tongue can delay the whole train and the horses need constant care.
    Tina Li, Sacbee.com, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • Its sturdy canvas ensures durability, while the interior pocket secures smaller items.
    Jené Luciani Sena may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 28 June 2025
  • Back at Riri’s house, Natalie decides that nobody puts baby in a corner and projects herself onto the canvas of Ronnie’s painting-in-progress.
    Stacia Brown, Vulture, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oil. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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