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balm
The definition of a balm is a soothing, oily substance that smells good and comes from certain plants or is man-made.
(noun)- An example of a balm is aloe.
- An example of a balm is the aloe plant.
- An example of a balm is Chapstick.
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See balm in Webster's New World College Dictionary
noun
- an aromatic gum resin obtained from certain trees and plants (esp. genus Commiphora of the bursera family) and used in the manufacture of perfume, medicine, etc.; balsam
- any fragrant ointment or aromatic oil for healing or anointing
- anything healing or soothing, esp. to the mind or temper
- any of various aromatic plants of the mint family, as the lemon balm
- pleasant odor; fragrance
Origin: ME baume < OFr basme < L balsamum, balsam < Gr balsamon < Sem (cf. Heb basam, Ar bašām
See balm in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
- a. A chiefly Mediterranean perennial herb (Melissa officinalis) in the mint family, grown for its lemon-scented foliage, which is used as a seasoning or for tea. Also called lemon balm.b. Any of several related plants in the mint family, such as the bee balm and the horse balm.
- Any of various aromatic resins exuded from several trees and shrubs, especially the balm of Gilead (Commiphora) and related plants.
- An aromatic salve or oil.
- A pleasing aromatic fragrance.
- A soothing, healing, or comforting agent or quality.
Origin:
Origin: Middle English baume, balsam
Origin: , from Old French basme
Origin: , from Latin balsamum; see balsam
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