OILS Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

oils 1 of 2

noun

plural of oil

as in paintings

a picture created with oil paint that artist is known to have created only oils and charcoal sketches

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oils

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of oil

as in greases

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 oils

Noun

The collection of Fragonard paintings — about 20 in total, 10 of which are oils — becomes apparent at this point. — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2026 The brand’s Ocean Silk Technology, plus argan and avocado oils, helps boost elasticity so strands are less likely to snap during heat styling. — Valeriya Chupinina, Vogue, 10 Nov. 2026 Trucking oils the new click-and-ship consumer economy and nearly 1 million rigs get off the Pennsylvania Turnpike at this commercial freight gateway every year, according to the turnpike commission. — Kris B. Mamula, Chicago Tribune, 9 Nov. 2026 Olive, castor, and jojoba oils instantly restore moisture to my extra-dry knuckles and cuticles. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 9 Nov. 2026 The agency also quarantined or recalled every cannabis product remotely connected to the farm, including material harvested in previous years or infused with oils made from plants grown on the property. — Paige St. John, Los Angeles Times, 8 Nov. 2026 Dishwasher tablets are made to tackle food residue, grease, and oils during a dishwasher’s main wash cycle. — Annita Katee, Martha Stewart, 8 Nov. 2026 Federal officials said Barham owned Blacfoot LLC, a small business that sold health products, lotions, oils and candles. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 7 Nov. 2026 Turntables are great for oils and vinegars, sauces, condiments, broths, and spices. — Gabriela Ulloa, Architectural Digest, 4 Nov. 2026

Verb

Ramakrishnan typically oils her hair twice a week before washing it. — Katie Hill, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for oils

Noun

Today, the restaurant features drawings and paintings by Curtis Archie, an artist Kneeland met approximately three years ago while looking for artwork to display during Black History Month.

— J.M. Banks November 10, Kansas City Star, 10 Nov. 2026
Her paintings of vibrant and mythical scenes inspired by Central Park’s wildlife were popular with locals and tourists alike.

— Molly Crane-Newman, New York Daily News, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of paintings

Verb

Rectitude is a hindrance in the game of electoral politics, where money greases the slippery pole and glad-hands welcome the winner with inside information.

— Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 24 Aug. 2026
View this post on Instagram Access greases the gears of the entire apparatus by creating its own positive feedback loop, like an ouroboros of exclusivity.

— Bloomberg, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026

Definition of greases

Noun

In past years, people have repurposed the thin plastic from the signs to make school projects, as art canvases, and even model airplanes.

— Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 5 Nov. 2026
Options include traditional frames (with over 50 styles to choose from), canvas prints, wood mounts, and framed canvases.

— Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2026