oily

UK: ˈɔɪli | US: ˈɔɪli

Definition

  1. adj. containing or covered with oil

  2. adj. excessively smooth or flattering in manner

  3. adj. resembling oil in texture or appearance

Structure
oil <liquid fat>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "oily" combines "oil," derived from Old French "oile" and Latin "oleum" (meaning olive oil or liquid fat), with the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives indicating a characteristic. Originally describing literal oiliness, it later expanded metaphorically to describe overly smooth behavior or textures resembling oil.

Examples

  1. The mechanic wiped his oily hands on a rag.

  2. She avoided his oily compliments, sensing insincerity.

  3. The salad was too oily for her taste.

  4. His oily demeanor made others distrust him.

  5. The surface of the pond looked oily under the sunlight.