Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—O

Oil

To strike oil. To make a happy hit or valuable discovery. The phrase refers to hitting upon or discovering a bed of petroleum or mineral oil.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Oil of Palms
Oignons d'Egypte
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

More on Oil from Fact Monster:

  • cod-liver oil - cod-liver oil cod-liver oil, yellowish oil obtained from the liver of the codfish. The oil is rich ...
  • drying oil - drying oil drying oil, any of several natural oils which, when exposed to the air, oxidize to form ...
  • oil gas - oil gas oil gas, any of a group of fuel gases produced from oil by exposing it to high ...
  • castor oil - castor oil castor oil, yellowish oil obtained from the seed of the castor bean. The oil content of ...
  • fusel oil - fusel oil fusel oil , oily, colorless liquid with a disagreeable odor and taste. It is a mixture of ...

Related Content
© 2000–2008 Pearson Education, publishing as Fact Monster