oilier; oiliest
1
: of, relating to, or consisting of oil
2
a
: covered or impregnated with oil
oily rags
b
: relatively high in naturally secreted oils
oily skin
oily hair
3
: excessively smooth or suave in manner
oilily adverb
oiliness noun

Examples of oily in a Sentence

The liquid has an oily feel. a pile of oily rags The salad dressing was very oily.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like creams, oily skin types generally avoid this formula. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 9 May 2025 The oily, white substance can soak into fibers and stain or discolor fabrics. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 May 2025 For moisturizer, every skin type needs hydration, including even oily or acne-prone skin. Cierra Black, Essence, 23 Apr. 2025 Its gentle watery texture leaves the skin moisturized but not oily, and is great for those who need to rebuild their skin barrier. Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oily

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of oily was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Oily.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oily. Accessed 15 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

oily

adjective
oilier; oiliest
1
: of, relating to, or consisting of oil
2
a
: covered or soaked with oil
b
: high in oils that are naturally produced
oily skin
oiliness noun

Medical Definition

oily

adjective
oilier; oiliest
1
: of, relating to, or consisting of oil
2
: excessively high in naturally secreted oils
oily hair
oily skin

More from Merriam-Webster on oily

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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