As a Noun: 1. A smooth, sticky liquid that is used as a fuel and for lubricating machines. English = oil. 2. Oil that you put on a part of a machine so that it moves smoothly. English = lubricant. 3. The act of putting oil on a part of a machine to make it move smoothly. English = lubrication. 4. A can for holding oil, with a long spout or nozzle through which the oil is squirted to lubricate machinery. English = oil can. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To apply oil to something using an oil can. 2. To put oil on a part of a machine to that it moves smoothly. English = lubricate.