Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fragrant, soothing ointment or preparation: A semi-solid substance, often containing medicinal or aromatic ingredients, applied to the skin to heal, soothe, or relieve irritation.
   • An aromatic resin from certain plants: Any of various fragrant, resinous substances obtained from plants, used historically in healing and perfumery.
   • Something that comforts, soothes, or heals: A figurative term for anything that provides emotional or psychological relief.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Ointment):
  • She applied a balm to her sunburned skin.
  • The lip balm helped prevent chapping in the cold weather.
• Noun (Resin/Plant):
  • Balm of Gilead is a resin known for its soothing properties.
• Noun (Figurative Comfort):
  • Her kind words were a balm to his troubled mind.
  • Music can be a balm for the soul.

Advanced Usage

• "Balm for": Used to indicate what is being soothed.
  • The apology was a balm for the hurt feelings.
• "Balm in Gilead": A biblical and literary reference symbolizing a universal cure or comfort.
  • The preacher spoke of finding a balm in Gilead for spiritual wounds.

Variants and Related Words

• Balm-y (adj., informal): Having a soothing, mild, or pleasant quality.
  • The balm-y evening air was perfect for a walk.
• Balsam (n.): A broader term for aromatic resins or soothing preparations; often used interchangeably with "balm" but can refer to specific plants or resins.
  • The balsam fir tree produces a fragrant resin.

Synonyms

• Ointment: A smooth, oily preparation for the skin.
• Salve: A healing or soothing ointment.
• Emollient: A substance that softens or soothes the skin.
• Comfort: Something that provides relief from distress.
• Solace: Comfort or consolation in a time of distress.

Related Phrases

• Balm of Gilead: A specific term for a medicinal resin, often used metaphorically for a universal healer.
• Lip balm: A specific type of balm applied to lips to prevent dryness.

Related Idioms

• A balm to the soul: Something that provides deep emotional or spiritual comfort.
  • The peaceful scenery was a balm to the soul after a stressful week.

Noun

1. semisolid preparation (usually containing a medicine) applied externally as a remedy or for soothing an irritation
2. any of various aromatic resinous substances used for healing and soothing