unction

anointing; smooth or excessive earnestness

Root

Other words with the unct / ungu root

  • anoint: to apply oil in a ceremonial or sacred way
  • ointment: medicinal oil or salve for the skin
  • unctuous: excessively smooth, flattering, or oily in manner
  • unguent: soft oily substance used on skin

Unction begins with anointing oil. From there, English turns oil into a smooth manner in speech or behavior.

The speech had too much unction to feel sincere.

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