noun
balm
BAHM/bɑːm/
A preparation that soothes or heals irritated skin.
She applies a soothing balm to the dry skin on her hands.
Etymology
The aromatic resin was used to heal wounds and soothe pain. That medicinal role gave balm its broader meaning of anything that brings comfort or relief.
In context
so the sores on his foot hopefully I'll get the balm on there and it'll just help it heal over that much quicker
More examples
- The pharmacist displayed several lip balms.
- The quiet garden was a balm to his troubled mind.
- A little balm eased the irritation beneath the bandage.
Forms
balm · balms
Similar words
- ointment
- Usually describes a medicinal semisolid preparation rather than emotional relief.
- soother
- Emphasizes the calming effect without specifying a substance.