sperm oil

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a yellow, thin, water-insoluble liquid obtained from the sperm whale, used chiefly as a lubricant in light machinery, as watches, clocks, and scientific apparatus.

sperm oil

noun

1. an oil obtained from the head of the sperm whale, used as a lubricant

Word History and Origins

Origin of sperm oil¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Sperm Oil is the best known of all the lubricants and is, for general purposes, one of the most excellent.

From Project Gutenberg

Sperm oil is the purest and best of all varieties of whale oil, and brings the highest price in the market.

From Project Gutenberg