rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryointmentSkin treatment
noun

ointment

OYNT-muhnt/ˈɔɪntmənt/

A greasy medicinal preparation applied to the skin.

She gently applies the ointment to the rash on her arm.

Close view of a gloved adult hand spreading a small dab of greasy medicinal ointment from a plain open jar onto a small dry patch of forearm.
Etymology
ointmentLatinointment, salve

Latin unguentum named a salve and was connected with unguere, “to anoint or smear.” That act of spreading a preparation on the body remains central to the medicinal meaning of ointment.

In context

FreeMedEducation4:34
Topical antibiotic ointment should be applied to prevent adjacent infection.
Ophthalmology Made Ridiculously Easy | 1st Edition | Digital Book

More examples

  • The pharmacist recommends an ointment for the itchy patches.
  • Apply a thin layer of ointment twice a day.
  • Some medicated ointments require a prescription.

Forms

ointment · ointments

Similar words

salve
Often interchangeable, especially for soothing irritated or damaged skin.
cream
Usually lighter and less greasy, and not always medicinal.