unction — English Dictionary

Noun

1. An ointment or salve.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   The King himſelf the ſacred Unction made, / As King by Office, and as Prieſt by Trade: […]

2. A religious or ceremonial anointing.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   To be heir, and to be king / By sacred unction, thy deserved right.

3. A balm or something that soothes.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

4. A quality in language, address or delivery which expresses sober and fervent emotion.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   Krook almost smacks his lips with the unction of a horrible interest.

   "Well, I'll say this for myself. If there's anything out of order where I'm about, I don't miss it." "I believe you," said Bradly with unction.

5. Unctuousness: A smug, exaggerated use of language; smarminess.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

6. Divine or sanctifying grace.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. A gathering of uncs.

   Usage

   • Internet
   • Humorous

Noun

1. excessive but superficial compliments given with affected charm

   Synonyms

   smarmfulsomeness

   Broader terms

   compliment

2. smug self-serving earnestness

   Synonyms

   fulsomenessoilinessoleaginousnesssmarminessunctuousness

   Broader terms

   hypocrisy

3. semisolid preparation (usually containing a medicine) applied externally as a remedy or for soothing an irritation

   Synonyms

   ointmentunguentbalmsalve

   Broader terms

   remedycurativecuretherapeutic

4. anointing as part of a religious ceremony or healing ritual

   Synonyms

   inunction

   Broader terms

   anointinganointmentreligious ceremonyreligious ritual