Crossword Genius

Built with care maybe as a way to avoid friction (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lubricate

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'to avoid friction' is the definition.
(lubrication helps avoid friction)

'built with care maybe' is the wordplay.
'with' says to put letters next to each other.
'maybe' indicates an anagram.
'built' put after 'care' is 'carebuilt'.
'carebuilt' anagrammed gives 'LUBRICATE'.

'as a way' acts as a link.
This may not be right. Some or all of it may be part of another bit of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lubricate that I've seen before include "Make slippery" , "Apply oil or grease to" , "supply with booze" , "Coat with oil to reduce friction" , "Apply oil/grease" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app