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balsam

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balsam

Main Entry:: bal·sam
Pronunciation:: \ˈbȯl-səm\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Latin balsamum, from Greek balsamon, probably of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew bāshām balsam
Date:: before 12th century

1 a: an aromatic and usually oily and resinous substance flowing from various plants ; especially : any of several resinous substances containing benzoic or cinnamic acid and used especially in medicine b: a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor2 a: a balsam-yielding tree ; especially : balsam fir b: impatiens ; especially : a common garden ornamental (Impatiens balsamina)3: balm 5

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