noun
lubricant
LOOB-rih-kuhnt
Lubricant (noun) means a substance, such as oil or grease, applied between surfaces to cut down friction and wear. Example: “Mechanics apply lubricant to gears so they don't grind against each other.”
noun
1
A substance, such as oil or grease, applied between surfaces to cut down friction and wear.
"Mechanics apply lubricant to gears so they don't grind against each other."
"A drop of lubricant fixed the squeak in the door hinge."
2
A gel or liquid used to reduce friction during sexual activity.
"The pharmacy stocks several brands of personal lubricant."
How to use lubricant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAnything applied to surfaces to make them slide smoothly instead of grinding.
Common pairings
engine lubricant
personal lubricant
apply lubricant
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like lubricant.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- lubricants
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Mechanics apply _____ to gears so they don't grind against each other.
Etymology
From the verb "lubricate" plus the suffix "-ant," which marks something that performs an action.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for lubricant
See all rhymes for lubricant →Frequently asked questions
What does “lubricant” mean?
The word “lubricant” means a substance, such as oil or grease, applied between surfaces to cut down friction and wear. In plain terms, anything applied to surfaces to make them slide smoothly instead of grinding.
How do you pronounce “lubricant”?
“Lubricant” is pronounced LOOB-rih-kuhnt (/ˈlubɹəkənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “lubricant” in a sentence?
Here is “lubricant” used in a sentence: “Mechanics apply lubricant to gears so they don't grind against each other.”
What is another word for “lubricant”?
Words with a similar meaning to “lubricant” include lube.
What part of speech is “lubricant”?
“Lubricant” is a noun.
How many meanings does “lubricant” have?
“Lubricant” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a substance, such as oil or grease, applied between surfaces to cut down friction and wear.
