balm

noun

ˈbäm  ˈbälm 

1

: a balsamic (see balsamic sense 1) resin

especially : one from small tropical evergreen trees (genus Commiphora of the family Burseraceae)

2

: an aromatic preparation (such as a healing ointment)

applied a balm to the wound

3

botany : any of several aromatic plants of the mint family

especially : lemon balm

4

: a spicy aromatic odor

… the white lilies in the garden, the herb bed near the bees—everything sent out fragrance and balm into the soft air …

—Agnes S. Turnbull

5

: a soothing restorative agency

Friendship is certainly the finest balm for the pangs of disappointed love.

—Jane Austen

Synonyms

• aroma
• attar
• otto
• bouquet
• fragrance
• fragrancy
• incense
• perfume
• redolence
• scent
• spice

Examples of balm in a Sentence

Art can be a balm to the soul.

She shows that laughter is a balm for difficult times.

Recent Examples on the Web

Luckily, the best products for chafing—whether that's a balm, powder, or lotion—can protect your skin against irritation all day long. —Jamie Ballard, Allure, 17 Dec. 2024

Starting with a foot bath, you’ll be guided on deep breathing techniques before receiving a full body massage working on pressure points and utilising reflexology on the face and feet—using Ground sleep spray, essential oils, bath salts, and deep sleep body balm. —Lewis Nunn, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024

This lightweight balm can keep lips soft and hydrated all day — while adding a festive touch to someone’s beauty routine. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 6 Dec. 2024

Midnight Diner, a series on Netflix set in a Tokyo restaurant, became a healing balm and a reminder of the warmth of being around people. —Joe Ray, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English basme, baume, from Anglo-French, from Latin balsamum balsam

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing balm

• balm of Gilead
• bee balm
• lemon balm

Kids Definition

balm

noun

ˈbäm  ˈbälm 

1

: resin from small tropical evergreen trees

2

: a fragrant healing or soothing preparation (as an ointment)

3

: something that comforts or refreshes

Medical Definition

balm

noun

ˈbä(l)m, New England also ˈbȧm

1

: a balsamic resin

especially : one from small tropical evergreen trees (genus Commiphora of the family Burseraceae)

2

: an aromatic preparation (as a healing ointment)

3

: a soothing restorative agency