Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) nanoparticles, with distinctive physical and chemical properties, significantly improve anti-friction and anti-wear performance as nanoadditives, showing advantages over conventional counterparts. As a key topic in global tribology, MoS 2 nanoparticles are critical for developing low-energy and reliable lubrication systems. This review summarizes recent advances in MoS 2 nanoadditives, focusing on morphology control, surface chemistry, nanocomposite functionalization, and lubrication mechanisms. Despite substantial progress, challenges remain, including maintaining long-term stability under extreme conditions and clarifying the dynamic behavior of nanoparticles at frictional interfaces, among other issues. Promising strategies include integrating multiscale simulations, in situ characterization, and intelligent nanoadditives design. Finally, the review outlines a theoretical framework for advanced lubricants and proposes a roadmap for engineering MoS 2-based nanoadditives.