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Definition of lubricate

lubricate

/ˈluː.brɪ.keɪt/
lu · bri · cate
Adjective:lubricative
•
Past Simple:lubricated
•
Past Participle:lubricated
•
Present Participle:lubricating
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lubricate Lexical Profile

lubricate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To apply a substance such as oil or grease to a surface or mechanism in order to minimize friction and allow smooth movement.

Example

"Be sure to lubricate the bicycle chain regularly so the gears shift smoothly."

2

To make a process, negotiation, or social interaction run more smoothly and easily.

Example

"Generous tax incentives helped lubricate the transition to renewable energy across the region."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for lubricate

• Nearby Words

lube
lublin
lubricant
lubricate
lubrication
lubricator
lubumbashi

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin lubricatus, the past participle of lubricare ('to make slippery or smooth'), from lubricus ('slippery').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lubricate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lubricate
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