χρίω
chrío
The Greek verb for anoint is χρίω (chrío).
The verb means to apply oil to or to pour oil upon.
Meaning: to apply oil to or to pour oil upon (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb can be used in the passive voice to indicate that someone was anointed, such as in the form ἐχρίστην (I was anointed).
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is chrío.
Did you know?
- The Greek word χρισματικός is derived from χρίω and describes someone who is not only anointed but possesses a spiritual gift or 'charisma'.
- Historically, in Ancient Greece, anointing with oil was not just for rituals but was a standard part of an athlete's preparation before competition.
- Because of its heavy biblical associations, using χρίω in a secular conversation can sometimes sound unintentionally dramatic or poetic to a Greek speaker.
Examples in context
- Ο πάπας χρίζει τους νέους κληρικούςThe Pope anoints the new priests.
Example conversation
A couple is preparing for a traditional ritual.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΜαρία, πότε θα χρίω το κεφάλι σου;María, póte tha chrío to kefáli sou?Maria, when will I anoint your head?
- Μαρία MariaΤώρα, Γιώργο, το έλαιο είναι έτοιμο.Tóra, Giórgo, to élaio eínai έtoimo.Now, Giorgos, the oil is ready.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΘα το κάνω προσεκτικά και αργά.Tha to káno prosektiká kai argá.I will do it carefully and slowly.
- Μαρία MariaΕυχαριστώ πολύ που το κάνεις για μένα.Efcharistó polý pou to káneis gia ména.Thank you very much for doing it for me.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “anoint” translations and entries χρίω, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
