Word for the day unctuous

[Josiah]

Below are two entries from different dictionarys showing remarkably different primary meanings




unctuous
[uhngk-choo-uh s]


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.




unctuous
ˈəNG(k)(t)SH(o͞o)əs/


adjective


1.(of a person) excessively or ingratiatingly flattering; oily.
"he seemed anxious to please but not in an unctuous way"


synonyms: sycophantic, ingratiating, obsequious, fawning, servile, groveling, subservient, cringing, humble, hypocritical, insincere, gushing, effusive;


2.(chiefly of minerals) having a greasy or soapy feel.

 

[hollydolly]

although the word unctious has always been used to mean something oily or greasy...or someone who is overly flattering in a smarmy way ...lately at least here in the Uk, more and more Chefs are describing foods laden with heavy cream...''unctuous''...meaning rich , creamy and delicious.

 

[oakapple]

It brings to mind... Mr Pecksniff [from Dickens.]Martin Chuzzlewit [I think.]

 

[hollydolly]

First person I thought of was Uriah Heep ...rubbing his hands together muttering....''ever soo 'umble..''.

 

[oakapple]

Yes! Dickens had lots of these unctious characters in his books.