balm of Gilead

noun phrase

balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgi-lē-əd How to pronounce balm of Gilead (audio)
1
: an agency that soothes, relieves, or heals
2
: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora opobalsamum synonym C. meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves
also : a fragrant oleoresin from this tree
3
: any of several poplars having resinous buds: such as
a
: a hybrid North American tree (Populus gileadensis) with broadly cordate leaves that are pubescent especially on the underside

Word History

Etymology

Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for its balm

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of balm of Gilead was in 1629

Dictionary Entries Near balm of Gilead

Cite this Entry

“Balm of Gilead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balm%20of%20Gilead. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

balm of Gilead

balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgil-ē-əd How to pronounce balm of Gilead (audio)
1
: a small African and Asian tree with fragrant evergreen leaves
also : its fragrant oily resin
2
: any of several poplars (as balsam poplar) having buds that are full of resin

Medical Definition

balm of Gilead

noun
balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgil-ē-əd How to pronounce balm of Gilead (audio)
1
: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves
2
: a fragrant oleoresin from the balm of Gilead

called also Mecca balsam

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