/
bɑːm/
n.
- a fragrant ointment used to heal or soothe the skin.
▸something that has a soothing or restorative effect.
- a tree which yields a fragrant resinous substance, especially one used in medicine.
[Genus Commiphora: numerous species.]
▸used in names of other fragrant plants, chiefly of the mint family, e.g. lemon balm.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. basme, from L. balsamum (see balsam).