anoint

Etymology

From Middle English enointen, anointen, borrowed from Old French enoint, past participle of enoindre (“to anoint”). Doublet of inunct.

verb

1. (transitive) To smear or rub over with oil or an unctuous substance; also, to spread over, as oil.
2. (transitive) To apply oil to or to pour oil upon, etc., as a sacred rite, especially for consecration.
3. (transitive, figurative) To choose or nominate somebody for a leading or otherwise important position, especially formally or officially, or as an intended successor.
4. (transitive, historical) To mark somebody as an official ruler, especially a king or queen, as a part of a religious ceremony.