What is another word for unctuousness?

Pronunciation: [ʌnktjˈuːuːznəs] (IPA)

Unctuousness is a term used to describe excessive smoothness or flattery that comes across as insincere or slimy. There are several synonyms that can be used to describe this negative behavior, including smarmy, oily, sycophantic, obsequious, ingratiating, fawning, servile, groveling, and toadying. Each of these words describes a person who is overly flattering in their behavior, which can often be driven by ulterior motives or a desire to gain favor with others. While these types of behaviors may be necessary in some situations, such as in professional settings, they can also be off-putting and annoying to people who value honesty and sincerity.

Synonyms for Unctuousness:

What are the hypernyms for Unctuousness?

A hypernym is a word with a broad meaning that encompasses more specific words called hyponyms.

What are the opposite words for unctuousness?

The opposite of unctuousness is sincerity. While unctuousness refers to false praise, insincere flattery, and exaggerated compliments, sincerity involves honesty and genuineness. Other antonyms of unctuousness are awkwardness, clumsiness, and inelegance. These words connote a lack of smoothness, polish, and grace, which are the hallmarks of unctuousness. Another antonym could be authenticity, which implies being truthful, transparent, and genuine in one's actions and words. Unctuousness can also be opposite to straightforwardness, which means being direct and clear in communication, without the use of flattering words or insincere compliments. In essence, any word that implies sincerity, honesty, and straightforwardness can serve as a good antonym for unctuousness.

Usage examples for Unctuousness

The smug unctuousness was gone; the jaunty side-whiskers drooped; his chalk-like skin fell in flabby folds, and his crafty eyes shifted like a hunted animal's.
"The Crevice"
William John Burns and Isabel Ostrander
The tutor breathed more freely, and, rid of the fear of being overheard, regained a little of his unctuousness.
"The Castle Inn"
Stanley John Weyman
He recognized, by the unctuousness of his delivery, and his oily accent, a well-fed priest who poured on his audience, according to his wont, his best known commonplaces.
"En Route"
J.-K. (Joris-Karl) Huysmans

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