ointment

oint·ment

noun \ˈȯint-mənt\

: a smooth substance that is rubbed on the skin to help heal a wound or to reduce pain or discomfort

Full Definition of OINTMENT

:  a salve or unguent for application to the skin

Examples of OINTMENT

1. You should put some ointment on that cut.

Origin of OINTMENT

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

Other Pharmacology Terms

anodyne, cathartic, emetic, emollient, liniment, paregoric, poultice, purgative, soporific, spectrum

oint·ment

noun \ˈȯint-mənt\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of OINTMENT

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin; specifically : a semisolid medicinal preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material