ELBOW GREASE Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

elbow grease

noun

Definition of elbow grease

as in effort

the active use of energy in producing a result with a little polish and a lot of elbow grease, I was able to make the old silver teapot shine again

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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.

Recent Examples of elbow grease Worse Unlike most traditional stains that benefit from a little elbow grease, burn marks are best treated gently. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 2 July 2026 There are also a ton of discounts on cleaning gadgets like this Dyson cordless vacuum that converts into a handheld and this Swiffer PowerMop that can make hardwood and tile floors shine without significant elbow grease. — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 Propellers can be particularly burdensome because rotors often need to be removed, cleaned and reinstalled, requiring some real elbow grease. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 23 June 2026 Save yourself time and elbow grease by opting for slate, wood, or vinyl flooring that is water-resistant and easy to wipe off. — Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elbow grease

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elbow grease

Noun

The president talked up Jackson and Senate candidate Mike Collins as part of the White House effort to boost GOP enthusiasm in the upcoming elections.

— DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFF FROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 17 Oct. 2026
Rowling has been staunchly critical of transgender rights activists, funding legal efforts to protect women’s rights and penning X/Twitter posts that are considered to be attacks by the trans community.

— Jake Kanter, Deadline, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of effort

Noun

Chisell, who previously worked at Amazon, eBay and Starling Bank, estimates that Paysend can now deliver around 25% more engineering work with the same-sized team, but argues that getting results isn’t as simple as handing everyone the latest tech.

— Lindsay Dodgson, CNBC, 17 Oct. 2026
Making the show work within Keery’s schedule was a challenge.

— Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of work

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elbowed

elbow grease

elbowing

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“Elbow grease.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elbow%20grease. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of elbow grease

noun

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