en
petroleum
/pəˈtroʊliəm/
Definition
1
A naturally occurring flammable liquid found in geological formations such as rock strata, consisting primarily of a complex mixture of hydrocarbons of various molecular weights and other organic compounds.
2
Also known as crude oil, it serves as the raw material for producing fuels like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, as well as petrochemicals, plastics, and lubricants.
Examples
The oil tycoon's yacht runs on petroleum so pure, it probably apologizes to the engine for burning.
When petroleum prices spike, my wallet shrinks faster than a cheap balloon.
Dinosaurs didn't go quietly; they turned into petroleum to haunt our gas tanks forever.
She struck petroleum in her backyard, proving that black gold hides where the grass is greener.