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   balm

   /bɑːm/

   noun

   • 1. a fragrant cream or liquid used to heal or soothe the skin: "a skin balm for use after shaving" Similar ointmentlotioncreamsalvelinimentembrocationrubgelemollientunguentbalsammoisturizerpomadepomatumtechnical:demulcenthumectantarchaic:unctionOpposite astringentirritant
   • ▪ something that has a soothing or restorative effect: "the murmur of the water can provide balm for troubled spirits" Similar reliefcomforteaseconsolationcheersolacealleviationmitigationassuagementhealingOpposite exacerbation
   • 2. a tree which yields a fragrant resinous substance, especially one used in medicine.
   • ▪ the resinous substance yielded by a balm.
   • 3. a bushy herb of the mint family, with leaves smelling and tasting of lemon.
   • ▪ used in names of other aromatic herbs of the mint family, e.g. bee balm.

   Word Origin Middle English (in the sense ‘preparation for embalming, fragrant resinous substance’): from Old French basme, from Latin balsamum (see balsam).

   Scrabble Points: 8

   • B

     3

   • A

     1

   • L

     1

   • M

     3

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