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

His duke is a spasm of nervous tics and shifty glances, of unctuous charm and feigned candor.

From New York Times • Apr. 8, 2024

As snow blew around in unctuous gusts, ten people heaved these cables through a drainpipe to the second story balcony of the computer building.

From Salon • May 29, 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

Inside the shop, Borgin remained frozen; his unctuous smile had vanished; he looked worried.

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling