<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>To rub or sprinkle on; apply an unguent, ointment, or oily liquid to.</li><li>To smear with any liquid.</li><li>To consecrate or make sacred in a ceremony that includes the token applying of oil: He anointed the new high priest.</li><li>To dedicate to the service of God.</li><li>To select for an honor, a particular role or office, etc.: After today’s interview, it looks like he will soon be anointed as head of the new Special Projects division.</li><li>The headline read, “Dictionary.com anoints ‘allyship’ Word of the Year for 2021.”</li></ul>