unctuous

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A core subplot in the film involves Ella’s father, played with an unctuous, desperate charm by Harrelson, reappearing in her life after many years with his own agenda.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 24, 2025

In the midst of this public-relations nightmare, Zoom's response to its estimated 800 million customers wasn't an apology or course correction, but an unctuous "clarification" doubling down on the new ToS.

From Salon • Aug. 11, 2023

Finkel includes satisfying evidence of this astounding loot in a color insert that shows a crammed jumble of “ethereal” ivory carvings, shining silver goblets, unctuous oil paintings and more.

From New York Times • Jun. 24, 2023

That combination of pop from the tiny mustard seeds; the unctuous, melty fat of the salami; and the peppery hot flavors is, for 30 seconds, my idea of heaven.

From Washington Post • Feb. 24, 2023

In fact, compared with Wal-Mart’s unctuous service ethic, Todd’s emphasis on the bottom line is positively refreshing.

From "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich