Anointed

To anoint someone signifies the act of ceremonially smearing or rubbing oil or ointment onto their body, typically as a symbol of consecration, dedication, or divine favor. Historically, it's associated with religious rituals, such as the appointment of kings, priests, and prophets. The process often represents bestowment of power, authority, and a special status. Beyond religious contexts, it can also figuratively denote the selection or designation of an individual for a specific role or purpose, often implying a sense of destiny or chosenness. This selection or designation often carries a degree of honor or authority.

Anointed meaning with examples

• The priest, during the coronation, anointed the new king with holy oil, signifying his divine right to rule and marking a sacred covenant between him and the deity. The ceremonial anointing was witnessed by all the people present, reinforcing the king's authority. The crowd cheered as the king was declared as one favored by their gods.
• In the biblical narrative, prophets were often anointed with oil as a sign of their chosen status by God and their future as divine messengers. They were given the power and purpose for what they had been chosen to do by God. The anointing distinguished them from ordinary people, conferring upon them unique abilities.
• The CEO, viewed by many as a visionary leader, was considered anointed to navigate the company through the financial crisis. His strategic decisions and bold moves proved he was the right person. His team trusted his instincts implicitly. The belief in his judgment provided the company with needed confidence.
• The young composer, hailed as a prodigy, was anointed by critics as the next Mozart, their music having reached the greatest of highs. His compositions displayed exceptional talent and innovation, which quickly drew attention from all. The anointing solidified his place as a rising star in the world of classical music.
• In modern usage, the social media influencer was jokingly anointed the 'Queen of Memes' by her followers due to her viral posts and humorous commentary. Her comedic takes on current events had made her an online celebrity. This playful anointing emphasized her online popularity.