Canada balsam

noun

Can·​a·​da balsam ˈka-nə-də- How to pronounce Canada balsam (audio)
: a viscid yellowish to greenish oleoresin exudate of the balsam fir (Abies balsamea) that solidifies to a transparent mass and is used as a transparent cement especially in microscopy

Word History

Etymology

Canada, country in North America

First Known Use

1754, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Canada balsam was in 1754

Dictionary Entries Near Canada balsam

Cite this Entry

“Canada balsam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Canada%20balsam. Accessed 12 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

Canada balsam

noun
: an oleoresin exuded by the balsam fir and used as a transparent cement especially in microscopy for mounting specimens and in optical instruments

called also Canada turpentine

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