1. to put oil or water on someone or something as part of a religious ceremony
Usage: religious
2. to choose someone for an important position or role
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The priest anointed the baby’s forehead with holy oil during baptism.
• The bishop anointed the new king with sacred chrism.
• She anointed her hands with healing balm.
• The committee anointed him as their successor.
• The media anointed her the frontrunner in the election.
• He was anointed as the team’s new captain.