bɑ:m n. 1 an
aromatic ointment for anointing, soothing, or healing. 2 a
fragrant and medicinal exudation
from certain trees and plants. 3 a healing or soothing
influence or
consolation. 4 an
Asian and N.
African tree yielding balm. 5
any aromatic
herb,
esp.
one of
the genus Melissa. 6 a
pleasant perfume or
fragrance. øbalm of Gilead (cf. Jer. 8:22) 1 a a fragrant
resin formerly much used as an
unguent. b a
plant of the genus Commiphora yielding
such resin. 2 the
balsam fir or
poplar. [ME f. OF ba(s)me f. L balsamum BALSAM]