balsam

noun

bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm 

1

a

: 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 medicine

b

: a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor

2

a

: a balsam-yielding tree

especially : balsam fir

b

: impatiens

especially : a common garden ornamental (Impatiens balsamina)

3

: balm sense 5

Examples of balsam in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Yankee Candle Balsam and Cedar Scented Candle Get cozy with this balsam and cedar-scented candle. —Averi Baudler, People.com, 8 Oct. 2024

Shop traditional autumn scents like pumpkin snickerdoodle and maple, refreshing scents like balsam and fruity mimosa, and unscented tapered and tea candles while prices start at just $7. —Monica Bell, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 2024

Stiebel suggests the Romans were motivated by economic concerns: The rebels had raided a site in nearby Ein Gedi where workers produced balsam, a coveted ancient perfume. —Ella Feldman, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Sep. 2024

The cologne has a sophisticated aroma that combines lively citrus with warming cypress, calming lavender, peppery copaiba balsam, and zesty vetiver. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 10 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin balsamum, from Greek balsamon, probably of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew bāshām balsam

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing balsam

• balsam fir
• balsam poplar
• Canada balsam

Kids Definition

balsam

noun

bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm 

1

a

: a fragrant and usually oily substance that slowly flows from various plants

b

: a preparation containing or smelling like balsam

2

a

: a balsam-yielding tree (as balsam fir)

b

: impatiens

especially : one grown as an ornamental

3

: balm sense 2

balsamic

bȯl-ˈsam-ik

adjective

Medical Definition

balsam

noun

bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm 

1

a

: 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 medicine

b

: a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor

2

: a balsam-yielding tree

3

: balm sense 3

balsamic

bȯl-ˈsam-ik 

adjective