as in to grease
to coat (something) with a slippery substance in order to reduce friction
used a petroleum based machine oil to lubricate the gears
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Recent Examples of lubricate
This important liquid contributes to a number of essential functions, such as regulating body temperature, flushing out waste, acting as a shock absorber for the brain and spinal cord, making saliva, and lubricating the joints.
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New Atlas, 1 Jan. 2025
The meibomian glands—which produce tears to lubricate the eyes—also became permanently scarred.
—Stella Shon, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024
When the wire was lubricated and connected to a plastic bearing, the wheels spun freely with minimal friction, Mattel says.
—George Petras, USA TODAY, 14 Dec. 2024
Emollients aim to smooth and lubricate the outermost layer of our epidermis and include ingredients such as ceramides and silicones.
—Audrey Noble, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for lubricate 
New Atlas, 1 Jan. 2025
The meibomian glands—which produce tears to lubricate the eyes—also became permanently scarred.
—Stella Shon, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024
When the wire was lubricated and connected to a plastic bearing, the wheels spun freely with minimal friction, Mattel says.
—George Petras, USA TODAY, 14 Dec. 2024
Emollients aim to smooth and lubricate the outermost layer of our epidermis and include ingredients such as ceramides and silicones.
—Audrey Noble, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for lubricate
Thesaurus Entries Near lubricate
Cite this Entry
“Lubricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lubricate. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.
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