ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

Examples of ointment in a Sentence

You should put some ointment on that cut.

Recent Examples on the Web

Innumerable social media posts question doctors’ advice on safe and effective measures like vitamin K and eye ointment. —Laura Ungar, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026

Other research suggests that parents who decline vitamin K shots are much more likely to refuse getting their newborns the hepatitis B vaccine and an eye ointment to prevent potentially blinding infections. —CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026

Its dense, ointment-like texture melts on contact, forming a protective seal that cushions fragile skin while locking in moisture. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026

The fly in the ointment is that operating expenses have grown faster than revenues, resulting in ~200 basis points of margin compression. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oynement, from Anglo-French uignement, oignement, ultimately from Latin unguentum, from unguere to anoint; akin to Old High German ancho butter, Sanskrit anakti he salves

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ointment

• fly in the ointment

Rhymes for ointment

• appointment
• disappointment
• reappointment

Kids Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a semisolid greasy medicine for use on the skin

Medical Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

specifically : a semisolid medicinal preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material