YourDictionary

Dictionary Home » Phrase Meanings » grease someone's palm

What does "grease someone's palm" mean?

Also, oil someone's palm or hand. Give someone money in exchange for a favor; also, bribe someone. For example, If you want you luggage to make the plane, be sure to grease the porter's palm. This term uses grease in the sense of “enrich.” [First half of 1500s]

link/cite print suggestion box