ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

see also:

fly in the ointment

Examples of ointment in a Sentence

You should put some ointment on that cut.

Recent Examples on the Web

Eye gels or ointments can provide longer-lasting moisture, especially at night. — Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 17 Sep. 2026

Over-the-counter creams, ointments or suppositories can soothe itching and swelling overnight. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 2026

Over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories may also help relieve itching and swelling. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2026

Additionally, about 3% to 6% of people have a skin allergy to neomycin, a key ingredient in most antibiotic ointments, according to the National Institutes of Health. — Dr. Jill Grimes, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 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