Pronunciation

/pəˈtrəʊliəm/

Definitions

• Noun: A noun referring to a complex mixture of hydrocarbons found beneath the Earth’s surface, primarily used as fuel for transportation and various industrial processes. Also known as crude oil.
• Verb: To extract or refine petroleum from the ground. For example: “The oil company is planning to drill for more petroleum reserves.”

Phrases

• “Petroleum-based products” encompasses items made from crude oil, such as gasoline and plastics.
• “Fossil fuels” often include petroleum, coal, and natural gas.
• “Oil spill” refers to an accidental release of petroleum into the environment.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The country relies heavily on petroleum exports for its economy.”
• Verb: “The refinery is processing large quantities of crude petroleum to produce diesel and gasoline.”
• Adjective: “Petroleum-fueled vehicles are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.”

Synonyms

• Crude oil
• Petroleum products
• Fossil fuel
• Mineral oil
• Hydrocarbon

Related Words

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Kerosene
• Lubricants
• Refining
• Extraction
• Crude
• Black gold (informal)