unctuous









unctuous


adjective

  1. characterized by excessive piousness or moralistic fervor, especially in an affected manner; excessively smooth, suave, or smug.
  2. of the nature of or characteristic of an unguent or ointment; oily; greasy.
  3. having an oily or soapy feel, as certain minerals.

adjective

  1. slippery or greasy
  2. affecting an oily charm

adj.late 14c., “oily,” from Old French unctueus, from Medieval Latin unctuosus “greasy,” from Latin unctus “act of anointing,” from past participle stem of unguere “to anoint” (see unguent). Figurative sense of “blandly ingratiating” is first recorded 1742, perhaps in part with a literal sense, but in part a sarcastic usage from unction in the meaning “deep spiritual feeling” (1690s), such as comes from having been anointed in the rite of unction. Related: Unctuously; unctuousness. adj.

  1. Containing or composed of oil or fat.
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