light oil

noun

1
: an oil of low specific gravity or relatively low boiling point (as below about 200° C): such as
a
: a flammable product obtained by the distillation of coal tar and containing aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, and pyridine
b
: a somewhat similar product recovered from wash oil after the scrubbing of coke-oven gas and used as a source of benzene and other aromatic hydrocarbons
c
: naphtha or other flammable petroleum distillate
2
: a crude petroleum having a high Baumé gravity (as 30° or higher)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near light oil

Cite this Entry

“Light oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light%20oil. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!