1
: a balsamic (see balsamic sense 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

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 on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For those who prefer to use minimal makeup, this multi-use balm from Jones Road is a winner. Caitlyn Martyn May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2025 Topping it all off was a warm pink blush swept beside her eyes and a barely-there pink balm on the lips. Essence, 1 Oct. 2025 This luxe set includes travel-friendly favorites like the iconic hand cream and nourishing lip balm—perfect for anyone who loves a touch of indulgence in their routine. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025 The hydrating balm comes in several different scents, but the vanilla is our pick for that warm, holiday cookie feeling. Brandi Fuller, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for balm

Word History

Etymology

Middle English basme, baume, from Anglo-French, from Latin balsamum balsam

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of balm was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Balm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balm. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

balm

noun
1
: resin from small tropical evergreen trees
2
: a fragrant healing or soothing preparation (as an ointment)
3
: something that comforts or refreshes

Medical Definition

balm

noun
ˈbä(l)m, New England also ˈbȧm
1
: a balsamic resin
especially : one from small tropical evergreen trees (genus Commiphora of the family Burseraceae)
2
: an aromatic preparation (as a healing ointment)
3
: a soothing restorative agency

More from Merriam-Webster on balm

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