rhizoverbBeta
DictionarybalsamAromatic plant substance
noun

balsam

BAWL-sum/ˈbɔːlsəm/

A fragrant resin or other plant substance used in medicine or perfume.

A shallow dish holds sticky balsam beside a piece of bark.

A small amber-colored pool of sticky balsam resin in a shallow ceramic dish, beside a resin-beaded piece of bark and an open tin of plant-based balm with a wooden spatula.
Etymology
balsamLatingum of the balsam tree

Latin balsamum names a tree gum. In English, balsam first referred to an aromatic resin used to heal wounds and soothe pain, then broadened to other fragrant preparations from trees and shrubs.

In context

Libranima148:27
if I had remembered to make a vial of the balsam of Fierabras, for time and medicine are saved by one single drop
Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 1 of 4

More examples

  • The perfumer adds balsam to give the scent a warm, woody note.
  • This soothing ointment contains balsam collected from tree bark.
  • Different balsams vary in fragrance, color, and thickness.

Forms

balsam · balsams

balsamic adjective — Relating to or containing fragrant balsam.

Similar words

resin
Resin is broader and need not be fragrant or medicinal.
balm
Balm emphasizes soothing or healing use, not a plant origin.