oiling

present participle of oil
as in greasing
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

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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 oiling 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 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 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, Twin Cities, 7 Aug. 2025 In another poem, the same Love tends to her postpartum, parting and oiling her scalp. M. Mick Powell august 5, Literary Hub, 5 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oiling
greasing
Verb
  • Repeat with remaining dough portions, greasing skillet with remaining 1 Tbsp.
    Erin Hooker, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 2025
  • Place all the ingredients in blender (except nonstick spray or oil for greasing pan).
    Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Oiling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oiling. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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