balsam

noun

bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm How to pronounce balsam (audio)
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

Examples of balsam in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Harsh chemicals such as fragrance mix, balsam of Peru, parabens, or propylene glycol: These can further exacerbate skin issues. Daley Quinn, Health, 25 Oct. 2024 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 See all Example Sentences for balsam 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of balsam was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near balsam

Cite this Entry

“Balsam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balsam. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

balsam

noun
bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm How to pronounce balsam (audio)
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
balsamic
bȯl-ˈsam-ik
adjective

Medical Definition

balsam

noun
bal·​sam ˈbȯl-səm How to pronounce balsam (audio)
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
balsamic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on balsam

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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