Balms

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Substances applied to the skin to heal or soothe irritation ; aromatic oils or ointments used for fragrance or medicinal purposes ; influences that provide comfort and calm in difficult situations
2. Medicinal or cosmetic preparations that relieve pain or discomfort ; scented ointments or oils used to soothe or refresh ; factors or actions that bring emotional relief or consolation
3. Preparations intended to soften, heal or protect the skin from harm ; fragrant substances used to impart pleasant smells or therapeutic effects ; sources or means of emotional or mental consolation and ease

Etymology: "Balms" is simply the plural of "balm", so the substance of the story belongs to that root. The ancient Greek "balsamon" named a fragrant resin, and the Latin "balsamum" carried the same sense. Along the way the word passed through Old French "basme" and Middle French "baume", and reached English as Middle English "bawme". Sixteenth-century writers reshaped the spelling to match its Latin source, which is why the modern "balm" looks more Latin than its medieval form did. The word also has a close relative in "balsam", which came into English directly from the same Latin source, so the two are doublets: one came through French, the other kept closer to its classical form. The sense of soothing relief grew naturally from the original fragrant ointments, which were prized for their healing properties as well as their scent.

Synonyms: ointments, salves, soothing agents, emollients, creams

Antonyms: irritants, abrasives, harsh substances