oilcan

[ oil-kan ]

noun

1. a can having a long spout through which oil is poured or squirted to lubricate machinery or the like.

oilcan

/ ˈɔɪlˌkæn /

noun

1. a container with a long nozzle for applying lubricating oil to machinery

Word History and Origins

Origin of oilcan¹

First recorded in 1830–40; oil + can ²

Example Sentences

In my mind I see a car repair shop, with the entire hospital building hoisted on the lift, and all the — ahem — providers underneath with wrenches, drills and oilcans in our upraised arms.

From New York Times

He held a long-spouted oilcan in his hand, and the oil was dripping to his feet.

From Project Gutenberg

Behind the open door the inner tube of a bicycle hung on a nail in the wall, and a bicycle-pump and an oilcan stood on a little shelf above it.

From Project Gutenberg

The tawny firemen emptied their buckets of cinders 30 in long series through the iron chute over the side; or found, by request, work for an oilcan round the funnel.

From Project Gutenberg

A gallon oilcan, painted blue and white, bobbed gently in the creek.

From Project Gutenberg