unctious etymology

Etymology

The word "unctious" is derived from the Latin word "unctus," which means "anointed with oil or fat."

Meaning

• Adjective:
  • Smooth, oily, or greasy to the touch.
  • Excessively oily or fat.
  • Overly smooth or flattering in speech or manner.
  • Insincerely flattering or hypocritical.

Origin

The Latin word "unctus" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₂ngʷ-" ("to smear, anoint"), which is also the root of the English words "ointment" and "annoint."

The word "unctious" first appeared in the English language in the 16th century, and it has been used in all three of its current senses since the 17th century.

unctious relate terms

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• knight

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• attention

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• bull

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• checkmate

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• adamant

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• bluff

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