anointed
UK[əˈnɔɪntɪd]US[əˈnɔɪntɪd]
adj
having had oil or another sacred substance applied in a religious ceremony as a sign of sanctification or consecration.
adj
formally chosen or appointed for a high role or position.
Morpheme Breakdown
anoint
ed
anoint
to smear on
ed
Etymology
the word 'anointed' originates from the latin verb inungere, a compound of in- ('on') and ungere ('to smear, anoint'). this latin term passed into old french as enoindre and subsequently into middle english as anointen. the core concept of applying oil, particularly in a sacred ritual, has been preserved throughout its evolution. the addition of the english past participle suffix '-ed' transforms the verb into an adjective, describing the state of having undergone this ritual act, which historically signified divine selection for roles such as priest, prophet, or monarch, a meaning extended metaphorically to secular appointments.
Analysis
Structure: anoint + ed
anoint (from latin inungere, meaning 'to smear on') + ed (old english past participle suffix, indicating a completed action or state).
Examples
the anointed king was crowned in a solemn ceremony.
in the biblical tradition, prophets were often anointed with oil.
she is seen as the anointed successor to the current CEO.