balm
balm Lexical Profile
balm Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A fragrant ointment, lotion, or preparation used to heal, soothe, or moisturize the skin.
"She applied a soothing lip balm to protect her chapped lips from the cold winter wind."
Something that comforts, soothes, or restores peace of mind.
"A quiet walk through the forest acted as a welcome balm for his frayed nerves."
An aromatic resinous substance exuded by certain trees and shrubs of the genus Commiphora, valued in medicine and perfumery.
"In ancient times, merchants traded precious myrrh and balm along the desert caravan routes."
Any of various aromatic perennial herbs of the mint family (Lamiaceae), especially lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), cultivated for their fragrant leaves.
"The gardener planted lemon balm near the patio to enjoy its citrusy scent and attract honeybees."
• verb
To soothe, comfort, or alleviate pain or distress; to apply a soothing ointment to.
"Warm tea and kind words helped to balm the weary travelers after their arduous journey."
• Rhymes for balm
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English baume, borrowed from Old French basme, from Latin balsamum, and ultimately from Ancient Greek balsamon ('aromatic resin of the balsam tree'), of Semitic origin. The silent 'l' was inserted in English during the 15th century to reflect the Latin spelling.