unctuous

American  

[uhngk-choo-uhs] / ˈʌŋk tʃu əs /

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.

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unctuous British  

/ ˌʌŋktjʊˈɒsɪtɪ, ˈʌŋktjʊəs /

adjective

1. slippery or greasy

2. affecting an oily charm

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Other Word Forms

• unctuosity noun
• unctuously adverb
• unctuousness noun

Etymology

Origin of unctuous

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

Explanation

You might know the idea of the adjective unctuous by other words like "oily," "smarmy," or overly "flattering." When a person is unctuous, you can't trust their kindness, because they usually want something in return. Interestingly, unctuous is derived from the Latin unctus which means "anointed with oil," which is where the oily connotation comes from. Unctuous and oily are synonyms that both suggest that someone is trying to butter you up; they're being nice, because they're hoping you'll give them what they want. Talk-show hosts, used-car salesmen, people who want your job: all of these are people we think of (rightly or wrongly) as being unctuous. Being an unctuous jerk, he gave me a gift, hoping I'd give him a record deal.

Example Sentences

A core subplot in the film involves Ella’s father, played with an unctuous, desperate charm by Harrelson, reappearing in her life after many years with his own agenda.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 24, 2025

Finkel includes satisfying evidence of this astounding loot in a color insert that shows a crammed jumble of “ethereal” ivory carvings, shining silver goblets, unctuous oil paintings and more.

From New York Times • Jun. 24, 2023

Fortified wine: Ruby port’s unctuous texture and flavor suggest chocolate.

From Washington Post • Feb. 9, 2023

Yes, Wilson was his own worst enemy in many ways, with a personality that tilted toward unctuous.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 3, 2023

He had dropped his unctuous tone and his smile now.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling