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Definition of ointment

ointment

/ˈɔɪnt.mənt/
oint · ment
Plural:ointments
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ointment Lexical Profile

ointment Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A smooth, oily preparation that is rubbed onto the skin for medicinal purposes, such as healing wounds or soothing rashes, or as a cosmetic.

Example

"The pediatrician recommended applying a soothing zinc oxide ointment to treat the severe diaper rash."

2

A highly viscous or semi-solid oil-based preparation used in religious or ceremonial anointing.

Example

"During the coronation ceremony, the monarch was blessed with a sacred, aromatic ointment."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ointment

• Rhymes for ointment

• Nearby Words

oilskin
oily
oink
ointment
oise
ojos del salado
ok

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'oynement', via Old French 'oignement' from the verb 'oindre' (to anoint), which traces back to Latin 'unguere' (to smear). The modern spelling with a 't' emerged under the influence of 'anointment' and the archaic verb 'oint'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ointment. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ointment
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