Nowadays, unctuous usually has a negative connotation, but it originated as a term describing a positive act, that of healing. The word comes from the Latin verb unguere ("to anoint"), a root that also gave rise to the words unguent ("a soothing or healing salve") and ointment.

What is an example of unctuous?

The definition of unctuous is oily, greasy or slippery in feel or character, or soft and rich garden soil. An example of unctuous is how a slug feels. ... An example of unctuous is good garden dirt.

What is unctuous coffee?

(of a wine, coffee, sauce, gravy etc.) Rich, lush, intense, with layers of concentrated, soft, velvety flavor. quotations ▼