ˈbɔ:lsəm n. 1
any of
several aromatic resinous exudations,
such as
balm, obtained
from various trees
and shrubs and used as a base
for certain fragrances and
medical preparations. 2 an
ointment,
esp.
one composed of a
substance dissolved in
oil or
turpentine. 3 any of various trees or shrubs
which yield balsam. 4 any of several
flowering plants of
the genus Impatiens. 5 a healing or soothing
agency. øbalsam
apple any of various gourdlike plants of the genus Momordica, having warted orange-yellow fruits. balsam
fir a N.
American tree (Abies balsamea) which yields balsam. balsam
poplar any of various N. American poplars, esp. Populus balsamifera,
yielding balsam. øøbalsamic adj. [OE f. L balsamum]