anoint

verb4

1. •
   To smear or rub over with oil or an unctuous substance; also, to spread over, as oil.

   • He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. — 1611
2. •
   To apply oil to or to pour oil upon, etc., as a sacred rite, especially for consecration.

   • Then shalt thou take the anointing oil, and pour it upon his [Aaron's] head and anoint him. — 1611
3. •
   To mark somebody as an official ruler, especially a king or queen, as a part of a religious ceremony.
4. •
   (figurative) To choose or nominate somebody for a leading or otherwise important position, especially formally or officially, or as an intended successor.

   • Unlike other previous Prelates, who were swiftly anointed bishops, Francis did not follow suit. Ocáriz remained a Monsignor. In the eyes of many observers, it was a demotion of Opus Dei. — 2024