lubricant
noun
lu·bri·cant
ˈlü-bri-kənt 
1
: a substance (such as grease) capable of reducing friction, heat, and wear when introduced as a film between solid surfaces
2
: 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
The lubricants in fabric softeners can leave behind a film that impacts the safety and effectiveness of certain materials, such as flame-resistant clothing, microfiber towels, and athletic wear.
—
Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2024
Draining the oil in the engine and transmission and replacing it with long-term lubricant.
—George Petras, USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024
Since Bartholomew was on probation for a January drug conviction in Solano County, police searched his car and allegedly found a large cache of condom packages and personal lubricant.
—Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 15 June 2024
In 2022, China produced 68% of the world’s rare earth minerals, which are used for things like magnets and batteries, and 70% of its graphite, which is used in lubricants, electric motors, and even nuclear reactors.
—Ryan Hogg, Fortune, 10 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for lubricant 
Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2024
Draining the oil in the engine and transmission and replacing it with long-term lubricant.
—George Petras, USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024
Since Bartholomew was on probation for a January drug conviction in Solano County, police searched his car and allegedly found a large cache of condom packages and personal lubricant.
—Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 15 June 2024
In 2022, China produced 68% of the world’s rare earth minerals, which are used for things like magnets and batteries, and 70% of its graphite, which is used in lubricants, electric motors, and even nuclear reactors.
—Ryan Hogg, Fortune, 10 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for lubricant
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lubricant.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near lubricant
Cite this Entry
“Lubricant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lubricant. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
E. B. Steen & Ashley MontaguLove words? Need even more definitions?
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