Balm Definition

bäm

noun

A chiefly Mediterranean perennial herb (Melissa officinalis) in the mint family, grown for its lemon-scented foliage, which is used as a seasoning or for tea.

American Heritage

An aromatic gum resin obtained from certain trees and plants (esp. genus Commiphora of the bursera family) and used in the manufacture of perfume, medicine, etc.; balsam.

Webster's New World

Any of several related plants in the mint family, such as the bee balm and the horse balm.

American Heritage

Any fragrant ointment or aromatic oil for healing or anointing.

Webster's New World

Any of various aromatic resins exuded from several trees and shrubs, especially the balm of Gilead (Commiphora) and related plants in the family Burseraceae.

American Heritage

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

verb

(archaic) To anoint with balm, or with anything medicinal.

Wiktionary

(figuratively) To soothe; to mitigate.

Wiktionary

Synonyms:

Other Word Forms of Balm

Noun

Singular:

balm

Plural:

balms

Origin of Balm

From Anglo-Norman and Middle French baume, from Old French basme, from Latin balsamum. Spelling modified 16th c. to conform to Latin etymology.

From Wiktionary
Middle English baume, balsam from Old French basme from Latin balsamum balsam

From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition