anele: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Archaic/RareHistorical/Religious/Literary
Quick answer
What does “anele” mean?
To anoint.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To anoint; especially to administer extreme unction to (a dying person).
To perform a religious or ceremonial anointing, typically in preparation for death. Historically refers to the sacrament of administering oil to a dying person.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No contemporary regional difference; the word is equally archaic in both varieties.
Connotations
Strong religious and historical connotations. May be perceived as formal, solemn, or poetic.
Frequency
Extremely rare in modern usage. May appear in historical novels, poetry, or theological discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “anele” in a Sentence
[Subject: Priest/Clergy] + anele + [Object: Person/Patient]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “anele” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The vicar was summoned to anele the old squire.
- In the medieval tale, a monk arrives to anele the wounded knight.
American English
- The historical account noted a priest would anele the pioneer before burial.
- The novel described how they sought a cleric to anele the dying man.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Found in historical linguistics, religious studies, or medieval literature.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Specific to historical descriptions of Christian sacraments.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anele”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anele”
- Using it in a modern, non-religious context.
- Confusing it with 'anneal' (to heat and cool metal).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered an archaic term and is almost never used in contemporary speech or writing outside of historical or specialized literary/religious contexts.
'Anele' is a narrow, archaic synonym of 'anoint'. While 'anoint' has broader usage (e.g., anointing a king, anointing with oil), 'anele' specifically referred to the anointing of a dying person.
Its historical usage is almost exclusively religious. Using it in a modern, secular context would be highly unusual and likely confusing.
You might find it in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, other Middle English texts, historical novels set in the medieval period, or in scholarly discussions of historical religious practices.
To anoint.
Anele is usually historical/religious/literary in register.
Anele: in British English it is pronounced /əˈniːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈnil/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this archaic term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'A kneel' – one might kneel to be aneled.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANOINTING IS PREPARING FOR A JOURNEY (i.e., the journey from life to death).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of the verb 'anele'?