self-anointed

The word is a modern English compound formed from the reflexive pronoun 'self' and the past participle 'anointed' of the verb 'to anoint'. 'Anoint' itself has a sacred history, originating from the Latin `inungere`, meaning "to smear oil upon," a ritual act used to consecrate kings, priests, and sacred objects. The compound 'self-anointed' logically applies this concept of ceremonial appointment to oneself. It carries a critical or ironic tone, implying a presumptuous claim to authority, status, or expertise that has not been formally or widely recognized by an external body.

Structure: self (self) + anoint (consecrate) + ed (adjective suffix) self: Old English, from Proto-Germanic. A reflexive pronoun meaning "one's own person." anoint: From Old French `enoint`, past participle of `enoindre`, from Latin `inungere` (to smear on). The core meaning is to apply oil, especially in a ritual of consecration. ed: Old English, a suffix forming adjectives from verbs, indicating a state or condition.