anoint
to rub or sprinkle on; apply an unguent, ointment, or oily liquid to.
to smear with any liquid.
to consecrate or make sacred in a ceremony that includes the token applying of oil: He anointed the new high priest.
to dedicate to the service of God.
to select for an honor, a particular role or office, etc.: After today’s interview, it looks like he will soon be anointed as head of the new Special Projects division.The headline read, “Dictionary.com anoints ‘allyship’ Word of the Year for 2021.”
Origin of anoint
1Other words from anoint
- a·noint·er, noun
- a·noint·ment, noun
- re·a·noint, verb (used with object)
- re·a·noint·ment, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
British Dictionary definitions for anoint
/ (əˈnɔɪnt) /
to smear or rub over with oil or an oily liquid
to apply oil to as a sign of consecration or sanctification in a sacred rite
Origin of anoint
1Derived forms of anoint
- anointer, noun
- anointment, noun
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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