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oil

Definition

  • noun: a thick, black liquid that comes from the ground and that is used in making various products (such as gasoline)
  • noun: any of numerous unctuous combustible substances that are liquid or can be liquefied easily on warming, are soluble in ether but not in water, and leave a greasy stain on paper or cloth
  • verb: to put oil in or on (something)
  • verb: to smear, rub over, furnish, or lubricate with oil
  • often used before another noun
  • synonyms: barbados tar

Examples

  • I asked the mechanic to check the 'oil'. [=to make sure that there was enough oil to make the car engine run smoothly]

  • The dressing is made with 'oil', vinegar, and a pinch of herbs.

  • He works mostly 'in oils'. [=he mostly uses oil paints]

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) I'm sure you can tell which are which. Second century. Very rare. One should always handle an antique vase from the inside. Otherwise the oil from the hands can damage the patina. Pure alabaster. Lovely. That's odd. What I did, I went like this, and then... (..)
    2006 The Pink Panther