Definition of BALSAM

balsam

Plural: balsams

Noun

  • any seed plant yielding balsam
  • any of various fragrant oleoresins used in medicines and perfumes
  • an ointment containing a fragrant resin
  • A sweet-smelling oil or resin derived from various plants.
  • A plant or tree yielding such substance.
  • A soothing ointment.
  • Something soothing.
  • A flowering plant of the genus Impatiens.
  • The balsam family of flowering plants (Balsaminaceae), which includes Impatiens and Hydrocera.
  • A balsam fir Abies balsamea.
  • Canada balsam, a turpentine obtained from the resin of balsam fir.

Verb

  • To treat or anoint with balsam.

Examples

  • "Classical music is a sweet balsam for our sorrows"

Origin / Etymology

Borrowed from Latin balsamum, from Ancient Greek βάλσαμον (bálsamon, “balsam”), of Semitic origin (Hebrew בושם (“spice, perfume”)); compare Old English balsam, balsamum (“balsam, balm”), Doublet of balm and desman. Not related to balsa.

Synonyms

balm, impatiens, jewelweed, touch-me-not

Scrabble Score: 10

balsam is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
balsam is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
balsam is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 13

balsam is a valid Words With Friends word