Slicked

The past tense and past participle of the verb "slick," meaning to make smooth or glossy; to apply a smooth, usually oily or wet substance to a surface; or to move smoothly or quickly. It often implies a deliberate action to improve appearance or performance, or to facilitate movement. In a metaphorical sense, it can refer to something that has been cleverly and smoothly executed, often with a degree of superficiality or deceit. The effect of something having been slicked often results in a reduction of friction or an enhancement of shine or flow. The term can be applied to both literal and figurative situations.

Slicked meaning with examples

• The mechanic slicked grease onto the gears to ensure their smooth operation. The machine ran much more quietly than before, its efficiency boosted by the lubrication. This simple act prevented friction, extending the life of the machinery and preventing annoying noises that would otherwise interrupt conversation. The repair was simple and a perfect fix.
• Before the race, the cyclist slicked their bike tires with a special compound. This reduced friction, helping them to gain a vital advantage over their competitors. With the tires prepared perfectly they could go faster than anyone. The other riders never knew that the secret ingredient was a special coating of lubricant.
• The salesperson slicked back his hair before meeting the client, presenting a professional image. His practiced smile and confident demeanor suggested success was assured. This presentation was designed to impress the potential client. The whole experience was planned to generate a feeling of trustworthiness, even if there was no such trust.
• The movie director slicked over the rough edges of the script with edits, presenting a finished product to the studio. Even though this version was a lot smoother, some critics called it a shallow take, lacking in meaningful commentary. This edit had cost millions, and made the film ready for public viewing.
• The politician slicked their public image with carefully chosen words and polished rhetoric. They hoped their words would sway voters to their point of view, with an illusion of honesty and substance. The speeches contained many double meanings, which left some people scratching their heads. The public bought it for the most part.