oleoso
1. containing, covered with, or of the nature of oil
The mechanic's hands were oily after working on the engine.
As mãos do mecânico estavam oleosas depois de trabalhar no motor.
2. excessively smooth, suave, or ingratiating in manner (often insincere)
The salesman had an oily manner that made customers uncomfortable.
O vendedor tinha uma forma oleosa que deixava os clientes desconfortáveis.
3. producing or secreting oil; relating to skin that tends to produce excess sebum
She has oily skin and needs to wash her face twice daily.
Ela tem pele oleosa e precisa lavar o rosto duas vezes por dia.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, 'oily' is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who is manipulative, insincere, or overly flattering. In skincare and beauty industries in Brazil, 'oleoso' is the standard technical term. The term can carry negative connotations when describing personality traits but is neutral when describing physical substances or skin type.
NYC Slang
slick (in the sense of being insincerely charming or deceptive)
Related Idioms & Phrases
oily rag
oil one's tongue (figurative: to speak persuasively, sometimes deceptively)
pour oil on troubled waters (to calm a situation)
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →