noun / verb

salve

SAV/sæv/

An ointment applied to soothe injured skin.

The man smooths a small dab of salve onto his dry knuckles.

An open tin of thick skin salve beside an older man's hands as he smooths a small dab onto dry, intact knuckles.

Etymology

Old English sealf already meant a healing ointment. The selected meaning preserves this concrete medicinal use: a preparation applied externally to wounds or sores.

In context

Mary's Nest0:00

a homemade healing ointment that soothes bug bites, cuts, and a whole host of minor skin irritations. This is a natural antibiotic ointment herbal salve

Natural Antibiotic Ointment Herbal Salve - Homemade Healing Ointment for Bug Bites, Cuts, and More!

More examples

The pharmacy carries several salves for irritated skin.
He salves his chapped lips before going outside.
Her kind words help salve his wounded pride.

Forms

salve · salves · salved · salving

Similar words

ointment: A broader term for semisolid preparations applied to skin.
balm: Often suggests a fragrant preparation that soothes or protects.
cream: Usually lighter and less oily, with water mixed in.