lubricate
Definitions
To apply oil, grease, or another slippery substance so that moving parts slide smoothly and don't grind.
润滑，涂油（使运动部件顺滑、不互相磨损）。
(figurative) To make a process or interaction run more smoothly.
（比喻）使过程或交往更顺畅。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedlubric (slippery, from Latin lūbricus) + -ate (make) = make slippery. You lubricate moving parts so they slide instead of grinding against each other. Figuratively, you can 'lubricate' a stiff conversation or negotiation — smoothing social friction the way oil smooths metal.
Root lubric still carries 4 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.lubricate the chain给链条上油
- 2.lubricate moving parts润滑运动部件
- 3.lubricate the joints润滑关节
- 4.properly lubricated充分润滑的
Example Sentences
- 1.
Remember to lubricate the chain before a long bike ride.
- 2.
Oil is used to lubricate the engine's moving parts.
- 3.
A few drinks helped lubricate the awkward conversation.
Synonym Comparison
- lubricate — reduce friction with a slippery substance; technical/mechanical
- grease — specifically with thick grease; informal ('grease the wheels')
- oil — apply oil specifically; lighter than greasing
- smooth — general, often figurative ('smooth the way'), no substance implied