lubricant

noun

lu·bri·cant ˈlü-bri-kənt

: a substance (such as grease) capable of reducing friction, heat, and wear when introduced as a film between solid surfaces

: something that lessens or prevents friction or difficulty

a social lubricant

lubricant adjective

Examples of lubricant in a Sentence

The car's axles need more lubricant. using humor as a social lubricant

Recent Examples on the Web

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.

But refineries essentially have to choose between making that lubricant or making diesel fuel. — Camila Domonoske, NPR, 16 June 2026 Sitting for hours on end compresses joints and reduces circulation of synovial fluid, the body’s natural joint lubricant. — Dana Santas, CNN Money, 22 June 2026 Now, lubricant refiners, automakers, and oil change service stations are sounding the alarm—prices are spiking, and supply shortages will hit in June. — Jordan Blum, Fortune, 29 May 2026 Aerosol cans, such as spray paint, lubricants, and insecticides, are particularly vulnerable. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lubricant

Word History

Etymology

lubric(ate) + -ant entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of lubricant was circa 1828

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

lubric

lubricant

lubricate

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Lubricant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lubricant. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lubricant

noun

lu·bri·cant ˈlü-bri-kənt

: something (as a grease or oil) capable of reducing friction when applied between moving parts

lubricant adjective

Medical Definition

lubricant

1 of 2 adjective

lu·bri·cant ˈlü-bri-kənt

: serving to lubricate a surface or part

lubricant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance that serves to lubricate a surface or part

normally, the intestinal passage requires no artificial lubricant—E. B. Steen & Ashley Montagu

lubricant

noun

Examples of lubricant in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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