OLEAGINOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Oleaginous is an adjective that describes something or someone as having the qualities or characteristics of oil, specifically referring to its greasy or oily nature. The term can be used in a literal sense, describing substances, surfaces, or textures that are oily or greasy in appearance or texture.
In a figurative sense, oleaginous is used to describe individuals who display excessive flattery, insincere charm, or exaggerated politeness in order to gain favor or manipulate others. These individuals are often perceived as overly smooth or slick in their interactions, employing their oily demeanor to achieve personal or professional gains. They may appear excessively ingratiating or overly smarmy, giving off an air of untrustworthiness or insincerity.
The term oleaginous is rooted in the Latin word "oleaginus," which signifies "of oil." It gained prominence in the English language during the 19th century and has since been utilized to describe a variety of contexts, from literal references to oils and substances, to more metaphorical mentions of people's behavior or character.
Overall, oleaginous is a term that conveys the qualities of oil, both literally and figuratively, depending on the context in which it is used. Whether describing a glossy surface or a person's behavior, the term highlights qualities that are often perceived negatively due to associations with excessive or insincere flattery and charm.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for OLEAGINOUS
Etymology of OLEAGINOUS
The word "oleaginous" comes from the Latin term "oleaginosus", which is derived from the Latin word "olea", meaning "olive". In Latin, "oleaginosus" referred to something that had the characteristics of an olive tree or produced olive oil. Over time, it evolved to have a figurative meaning and referred to individuals or things that were oily or greasy in nature. The English word "oleaginous" was derived from this Latin term and first appeared in the 17th century with a similar figurative sense, describing someone who is excessively ingratiating or unctuous in their manner. Today, "oleaginous" is used to describe someone or something that is excessively flattering, smarmy, or insincere in a way that often feels slimy or deceitful.
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