Definition of balm
1 : a balsamic (see balsamic 1) resin; especially : one from small tropical evergreen trees (genus Commiphora of the family Burseraceae)
2 : an aromatic preparation (such as a healing ointment) applied a balm to the wound
3 botany : any of several aromatic plants of the mint family; especially : lemon balm
4 : a spicy aromatic odor … the white lilies in the garden, the herb bed near the bees—everything sent out fragrance and balm into the soft air … — Agnes S. Turnbull
5 : a soothing restorative agency Friendship is certainly the finest balm for the pangs of disappointed love. — Jane Austen
People Are Reading
Examples of balm in a Sentence
Art can be a balm to the soul.
She shows that laughter is a balm for difficult times.
Recent Examples of balm from the Web
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For city walking, Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll recommend carrying these items in a day pack: • water •sunscreen • sunglasses • lip balm•
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In crass times like these, the deep civility that powers his voice is a balm.
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Pretty Lips H 2 0+ Beauty Oasis Lip Gel marries the hydration of a balm with the sheer color of a lip stain.
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Try the lip balm kit ($15) or Perfume Science: The Art and Science of Making Scents ($50).
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'balm'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of balm
Middle English basme, baume, from Anglo-French, from Latin balsamum balsam
First Known Use: 13th century
BALM Defined for English Language Learners
balm
playDefinition of balm for English Language Learners
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: an oily substance that has a pleasant smell and that is used for healing, smoothing, or protecting the skin
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: something that gives comfort or support
BALM Defined for Kids
balm
playDefinition of balm for Students
: a greasy substance used for healing or protecting the skin lip balm
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about balm
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See words that rhyme with balm Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for balm Spanish Central: Translation of balm Nglish: Translation of balm for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of balm for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about balm
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