Word
lubrication
Phoneticslu·bri·ca·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌɫubɹɪˈkeɪʃən/
UK/lˌuːbɹɪkˈeɪʃən/
Definition
n. the process of adding oil or grease to a machine to help it move smoothly and prevent it from breaking. It also describes the act of making a situation easier or more pleasant for someone.
n. the process of applying a substance to reduce friction between moving parts of a machine; also used figuratively to describe the act of smoothing a social or political situation to make it easier to manage.
Examples
“Regular lubrication keeps the engine running smoothly.”
“The technician performed a full lubrication of the gears to prevent them from seizing during the winter months.”
“The diplomat's role was to provide the necessary lubrication for the peace talks, ensuring that both sides could negotiate without the friction of past grievances.”
Examples
simple
“Regular lubrication keeps the engine running smoothly.”
contextual
“The technician performed a full lubrication of the gears to prevent them from seizing during the winter months.”
complex
“The diplomat's role was to provide the necessary lubrication for the peace talks, ensuring that both sides could negotiate without the friction of past grievances.”
Real-World Examples
“Such coatings could contribute to improved lubrication, advanced industrial finishes, low-fouling surfaces, medical technologies and microfluidic devices.” “Scientists have created an injectable gel that can remain inside arthritic joints for weeks, slowly releasing medication while also improving lubrication.” Etymology
From lubricate + -ion.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/lubrication