ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

Examples of ointment in a Sentence

You should put some ointment on that cut.

Recent Examples on the Web

Applying an antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage that won’t stick to the wound. —Cheryl Vari, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Next time someone burns their finger while cooking, quickly put some diaper rash ointment that contains zinc oxide on the burn. —Caleb Harris, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

For the most part, standard treatments typically focus on topical ointments that include: Metronidazole and azelaic acid are first-line topical medications that help reduce redness and inflammation. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 12 June 2025

Your tattoo artist should cover your tattoo with ointment and a clean bandage and give you aftercare instructions to support healing. —Brendan Camp, Verywell Health, 28 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oynement, from Anglo-French uignement, oignement, ultimately from Latin unguentum, from unguere to anoint; akin to Old High German ancho butter, Sanskrit anakti he salves

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ointment

• fly in the ointment

Rhymes for ointment

• appointment
• disappointment
• reappointment

Kids Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a semisolid greasy medicine for use on the skin

Medical Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

specifically : a semisolid medicinal preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material