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

The retreat also builds in plenty of time for rest and provides rehydration salts as well as ointments for ostomy care. — Katie Camero, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

In one sense, snake men like Underwood were no different from present-day gadget and ointment salesmen. — Literary Hub, 10 July 2026

As co-creator (with series director Jeff Schaffer, a Curb and Seinfeld alum) and star, David casts himself as the fly in many historical ointments. — Judy Berman, Time, 24 June 2026

EltaMD originated in 1800s rural Switzerland as an ointment provider, and this rich legacy of healing has continued in the form of its high-performing, medical-grade formulas that are trusted by doctors and legions of celebrity fans alike. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 23 June 2026

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