lu·bri·cate / ˈloōbrəˌkāt/ • v. [tr.] apply a substance such as oil or grease to (an engine or component) to minimize friction and allow smooth movement: remove the nut and lubricate the thread | [as adj.] (lubricating) lubricating oils. ∎  make (something) slippery or smooth by applying an oily substance. ∎ fig. make (a process) run smoothly: the availability of credit lubricated the channels of trade. ∎ fig. make someone convivial, esp. with alcohol: men lubricated with alcohol speak their true feelings.DERIVATIVES: lu·bri·ca·tion / ˌloōbrəˈkāshən/ n.lu·bri·ca·tor / -ˌkātər/ n.

lubricate make slippery or smooth XVII; treat with oil XVIII. f. pp. stem of L. lūbricāre, f. lūbricus slippery; see -ATE3.
So lubricity wantonness XIV; slipperiness XVII. — F. — late L.