Unctuous

usgb/ˈʌŋktʃuəs/
adjective

Acting in a way that is too friendly or shows too much praise, usually in order to get something from someone.

He gave me an unctuous smile and ushered me into his office.
Visual representation of "unctuous" - Acting in a way that is too friendly or shows too much praise, usually in order to get something from someone.

Often appears as...

  • unctuous praise
  • unctuous smile

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "unctuous"
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Insincerity

Unctuous behavior often implies dishonesty or pretending to be nice.

Illustration for Insincerity
His unctuous compliments felt empty and deceitful.
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Hidden Motives

The word is used when someone is overly friendly for self-serving reasons.

Illustration for Hidden Motives
The salesman's unctuous demeanor made me skeptical.
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Positive to Negative

'Unctuous' often starts with a positive impression then shifts to a negative feeling.

Illustration for Positive to Negative
I was put off by his unctuous charm; it seemed fake.
Visual representation of the word "Unctuous"

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