unctuous

[ uhngk-choo-uhs ]

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.

unctuous

/ ˌʌŋktjʊˈɒsɪtɪ; ˈʌŋktjʊəs /

adjective

1. slippery or greasy
2. affecting an oily charm

Derived Forms

• unctuosity, noun
• ˈunctuously, adverb

Other Words From

• unctu·ous·ly adverb
• unctu·ous·ness unc·tu·os·i·ty [uhngk-choo-, os, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unctuous¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Medieval Latin ūnctuōsus, equivalent to Latin ūnctu(s) “act of anointing” ( ung(uere) “to smear, anoint” + -tus suffix of verb action) + -ōsus -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of unctuous¹

C14: from Medieval Latin unctuōsus, from Latin unctum ointment, from ungere to anoint

Example Sentences

Moreover, the script transitions him, through Finan’s effective performance, from a gawky, bespectacled nerd putting on airs, into an unctuous political predator.

From Salon

Trump is naturally very pleased with this unctuous display of sycophancy.

From Salon

His duke is a spasm of nervous tics and shifty glances, of unctuous charm and feigned candor.

From New York Times

Among Mr. Flaherty’s characters were Guy Caballero, the sleazy president of the station, and Sammy Maudlin, an unctuous late-night talk show host.

From New York Times

Forming a community of sad-sack men with the squatter and a local handyman, our kindly hero takes on the unctuous priest and the corrupt mayor, in a small-town comedy that sparkles with unique characters and heartwarming wit.

From New York Times