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