1. to put oil or water on someone in a religious ceremony
Usage: religious context
2. to choose someone for an important position or role
Usage: often used figuratively

Examples

• The priest anoints the baby’s forehead with holy oil during baptism.
• The bishop anoints the new king in a sacred ceremony.
• She anoints her skin with moisturizer every morning.
• The committee anoints him as their new leader.
• The coach anoints the star player as team captain.
• The media anoints her as the next great novelist.
• He anoints his successor before retiring from the company.