Unction

Unction refers to a formal act of anointing with oil, especially as part of a religious rite or ceremony. In everyday writing, it can also suggest a sense of solemnity, reverence, and spiritual significance.

Definition:

Historically, unction could describe applying ointments or unguents for medicinal or ceremonial purposes. In modern English, the most common meaning is the religious practice of anointing (for example, in traditions that use the rite of anointing the sick or other ceremonial anointings). The word often carries an implied sense that grace, blessing, or divine favor is being bestowed through the ritual.

Related terms you may see in similar contexts include oath (a solemn promise) and union (a state of being joined), which can appear in religious or ceremonial discussions—though they are different from unction itself.

Example Sentences:

• The priest administered the unction to the sick child, offering prayers for healing.

• In the Orthodox tradition, the unction of the sick is one of the seven sacraments.

• Before he died, the dying man received the last unction, with his family gathered nearby.

• The bishop performed the unction during the ordination ceremony.

• The chapel felt filled with deep unction as the service began.

• In her speech, she used the word unction to describe the calm, reverent atmosphere of the ritual.

Unction Synonyms:

• Anointing
• Oil
• Balm
• Salve
• Ointment
• Unguent
• Benediction
• Blessing
• Consecration
• Rite

Unction Antonyms:

• Dryness
• Abrasion
• Roughness
• Coarseness
• Friction
• Neglect
• Irreverence
• Negativity
• Disrespect
• Neglectfulness

Explore more use and oneness words with similar meanings and contexts across the site.