oil burner
A device whose operation causes apparent combustion of lubricating oil.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“My old car is a real oil burner.”
“The mechanic warned me that the engine is an oil burner, so I must check the levels often.”
“Despite the vintage charm of the vehicle, its status as a notorious oil burner necessitated frequent maintenance and constant vigilance regarding exhaust emissions.”
- 01
add oil
Synonym of let's go: a cheer of encouragement, support, etc.
- 02
burn the midnight oil
To work studiously, especially late into the night.
- 03
oil and water
Two things which are incapable of mixing or coexisting harmoniously with each other.
- 04
oil trash
An uncultured, rowdy roughneck employed in the petroleum industry, especially a "white trash" person if used negatively.
- 05
pour oil on troubled waters
To calm, appease or quiet a person or situation.
- 06
snake oil
A fraudulent, ineffective potion or nostrum; panacea.
- 07
strike oil
To have sudden good fortune, especially financially.
Last updated August 10, 2026