Definition of balsam
1a : an aromatic and usually oily and resinous substance flowing from various plants; especially : any of several resinous substances containing benzoic or cinnamic acid and used especially in medicineb : a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor
2a : a balsam-yielding tree; especially : balsam firb : impatiens; especially : a common garden ornamental (Impatiens balsamina)
3 : balm 5
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Origin and Etymology of balsam
Latin balsamum, from Greek balsamon, probably of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew bāshām balsam
First Known Use: before 12th century
BALSAM Defined for English Language Learners
balsam
playDefinition of balsam for English Language Learners
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: an oily substance with a pleasant smell that comes from different kinds of plants
BALSAM Defined for Kids
balsam
playDefinition of balsam for Students
1 : a material with a strong pleasant smell that oozes from some plants
2 : a fir tree that yields balsam
Medical Dictionary
balsam
playMedical Definition of balsam
1a: an aromatic and usually oily and resinous substance flowing from various plants; especially : any of several resinous substances containing benzoic or cinnamic acid and used especially in medicineb: a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor
2: a balsam-yielding tree
3: balm 3
Learn More about balsam
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Spanish Central: Translation of balsam Nglish: Translation of balsam for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about balsam
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