well-oiled
|well/oiled|
B2
/wɛl ɔɪld/
smooth operation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'well-oiled' originates from the combination of 'well' and 'oiled', where 'well' means 'in a good or satisfactory way' and 'oiled' refers to being lubricated.
Historical Evolution
'well-oiled' has been used metaphorically to describe efficient systems since the early 20th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to machines that were lubricated, but over time it evolved to describe efficient systems and intoxicated individuals.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
functioning smoothly and efficiently, like a machine that is well lubricated.
The team worked like a well-oiled machine.
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Antonyms
Adjective 2
(informal) Drunk or intoxicated.
He was well-oiled after the party.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/03/30 23:32