Balsamizing

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. The process of treating with a balsam substance to preserve or soften something
2. The action of applying a balsam to enhance fragrance or healing properties
3. A method of infusing materials with the properties of balsam for various beneficial effects

Etymology: Balsam began as the name of a fragrant resin. The Greeks called it "balsamon," a word that probably came from a Semitic source, most likely the Hebrew "bośem," meaning spice or aromatic oil. Latin took it as "balsamum," and the substance stayed valued both as perfume and as medicine. "Balsamize" is a simple English formation: the noun "balsam" plus the verb-forming suffix "-ize," which comes through Latin from Greek "-izein" and means to make, treat, or subject to. The "-ing" ending makes this a participle or gerund, so the word names the act of treating something with balsam, whether to scent it or to soothe a wound.

Synonyms: soothing, calming, comforting