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

Zinc also exists in various forms, including gels, lotions, mouth rinses, ointments, and oral supplements. —Cynthia Sass, Health, 11 Dec. 2025

How to Wash Cotton Skin Care Gloves Cotton gloves used for skin care should be washed regularly to keep them free of bacteria that can cause skin irritation and to prevent product buildup from creams, balms, and ointments used to treat skin conditions. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025

If itching persists or a rash develops, seek a pharmacist for hydrocortisone ointment or Benadryl. —Hunter Geisel, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

Howard went to get a bandage, put antibacterial ointment on it, and covered her cut. —Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 23 Nov. 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