Find Synonyms

anointing Synonyms

Another word for anointing

Choosing another word for anointing depends on context, so the 19 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

The ceremonial or religious act of applying sacred oil or ointment to a person or object as a sign of consecration, healing, or divine blessing.

Usage Example

"The ancient coronation ritual culminated in the solemn anointment of the new monarch by the archbishop."

Strongest
anointment
Strong
consecration
unction
sanctification
blessing
chrismation

• verb (Context 2)

To smear or rub with oil or an oily substance, typically as part of a religious, healing, or consecratory ceremony (present participle of anoint).

Usage Example

"The priest stood before the congregation, consecrating the forehead of each catechumen with blessed oil."

Strong
consecrating
blessing
sanctifying
hallowing

• noun (Context 3)

The official selection, designation, or endorsement of a person for a prominent position or succession.

Usage Example

"The board's early appointment of the vice president as the next chief executive surprised several industry analysts."

Strong
appointment
designation
nomination
coronation
investiture

• verb (Context 4)

To nominate, choose, or designate officially as a successor or leading candidate (present participle of anoint).

Usage Example

"Critics accused the party leadership of appointing a successor months before the primary election even began."

Strong
appointing
designating
nominating
selecting
crowning

Opposites of anointing

The opposite of anointing shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

desecration
dismissal
rejection
rejecting
profanation
dismissing
removal
See all opposites of anointing

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Anointing. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/anointing
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