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

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

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