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

Don't add any oils or ointments to a humidifier. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 10 Jan. 2026

If a lip mask isn't available, 100% petroleum jelly or a healing ointment with hyaluronic acid and ceramides can be used to lock in moisture. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA Today, 27 Dec. 2025

Compact yet surprisingly comprehensive, the Welly kit includes flexible fabric bandages, waterproof options, non-stick pads, tape, cleansing wipes, and single-use antibiotic ointments. —Samantha Leal, Travel + Leisure, 21 Dec. 2025

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