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Definition of oily

oily

/ˈɔɪ.li/
oil · y
Adverb:oilily
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oily Lexical Profile

oily Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Containing, covered with, or soaked in oil; having the smooth, slippery, or viscous texture of oil.

Example

"The mechanic wiped his oily hands on a clean rag before inspecting the engine."

2

Excessively smooth, flattering, or ingratiating in manner, to the point of seeming insincere or untrustworthy.

Example

"She immediately distrusted the salesman because of his oily charm and exaggerated compliments."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for oily

• Nearby Words

oilpan
oilproof
oilskin
oily
oink
ointment
oise

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Late Middle English from the noun 'oil' (derived via Old French 'oile' from Latin 'oleum', meaning 'olive oil') combined with the adjectival suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

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