verb
anoint
uh-NOYNT
Anoint (verb) means to put oil on someone or something, often as part of a religious ceremony. Example: “The priest anointed the newborn with holy oil.”
verb
1
To put oil on someone or something, often as part of a religious ceremony.
"The priest anointed the newborn with holy oil."
"Kings were traditionally anointed with oil during their coronation."
2
To formally choose or name someone for an important role, especially a successor.
"The retiring CEO anointed his deputy as the next leader."
How to use anoint
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo rub with oil ceremonially, or, more broadly, to formally designate someone for a special role.
Common pairings
anoint a king
anoint a successor
anointed with oil
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- anoints
- Past tense
- anointed
Fill the gap
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The priest _____ the newborn with holy oil.
Etymology
From Old French enoint, past participle of enoindre, "to anoint."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for anoint
point
joint
appoint
endpoint
pinpoint
gunpoint
viewpoint
standpoint
disappoint
PowerPoint
checkpoint
needlepoint
See all rhymes for anoint →
Frequently asked questions
What does “anoint” mean?
The word “anoint” means to put oil on someone or something, often as part of a religious ceremony. In plain terms, to rub with oil ceremonially, or, more broadly, to formally designate someone for a special role.
How do you pronounce “anoint”?
“Anoint” is pronounced uh-NOYNT (/əˈnɔɪnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “anoint” in a sentence?
Here is “anoint” used in a sentence: “The priest anointed the newborn with holy oil.”
What part of speech is “anoint”?
“Anoint” is a verb.
Where does the word “anoint” come from?
The word “anoint” comes from Old French. From Old French enoint, past participle of enoindre, "to anoint.".
How many meanings does “anoint” have?
“Anoint” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to put oil on someone or something, often as part of a religious ceremony.
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