To obtain a metal processing lubricant having an excellent oil stating property and a good lubricity.

This metal processing lubricant contains a compound of the formula: R1COO-(AO)n-X or formula (2) (wherein R1 is a residue obtained by removing a carboxyl group from a saturated fatty acid; (AO)n is a polyoxyalkylene chain containing an oxyalkylene group having a carbon number of ≥3; and (n) is the degree of polymerization of AO and is ≥2). Preferably, (AO)n contains an oxypropylene group.