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

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

Once the toad is positively identified as the invasive species by spotting the poison glands behind its eyes, benzocaine or lidocaine ointment or spray can be used as anesthesia to ensure the toad doesn’t feel pain. — Amaia Gavica, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026

Everest survivor Dawa Sherpa's daughter Mendo Lhamu Sherpa applies ointment on his frostbitten hands in Kathmandu, Nepal, on June 18, 2026. — CBS News, 19 June 2026

When doctors smothered it in ointment, about 45 larvae crawled out. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 9 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