unctuous

The definition of unctuous is oily, greasy or slippery in feel or character, or soft and rich garden soil.

(adjective)

See unctuous in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

1. of, like, or characteristic of an ointment or unguent; oily or greasy
2. made up of or containing fat or oil
like oil, soap, or grease to the touch: said of certain minerals
soft and rich: said of soil
plastic; moldable
characterized by a smug, smooth pretense of spiritual feeling, fervor, or earnestness, as in seeking to persuade; too suave or oily in speech or manner

Origin: ME < ML unctuosus, greasy < L unctum, ointment < ungere, to anoint: see unguent

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See unctuous in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Characterized by affected, exaggerated, or insincere earnestness: “the unctuous, complacent court composer who is consumed with envy and self-loathing” (Rhoda Koenig).
Having the quality or characteristics of oil or ointment; slippery.
Containing or composed of oil or fat.
Abundant in organic materials; soft and rich: unctuous soil.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old French unctueus

Origin: , from Medieval Latin ūnctuōsus

Origin: , from Latin ūnctum, ointment

Origin: , from neuter past participle of unguere, to anoint

Related Forms: