unc|tion

unc|tion «UHNGK shuhn», noun.

1. the action of anointing with oil, ointment, or the like, for medical purposes or as a religious rite: »

The priest gave the dying man extreme unction.

2. the oil, ointment, or the like, used for anointing.

3. Figurative. a) something soothing or comforting: »

the unction of flattery.

b) a soothing, sympathetic, and persuasive uality in speaking.

4. Figurative. a) fervor, especially religious fervor; earnestness. b) affected earnestness or sentiment; smoothness and oiliness, as of language or manner.

5. a) a divine or spiritual influence acting upon a person (in the Bible, I John 2:20). b) the flowing of this influence.

╂[< Latin unctiō, -ōnis < unguere to anoint]