Definition of: balsam

(bôl′səm) noun
1. Any of a group of fragrant oleoresins obtained chiefly from the exudations of various trees.
2. Any such tree.
3. Any fragrant ointment; balm.
4. An aromatic resin containing cinnamic and benzoic acid, or the tree that yields it.
5. A flowering plant of the genus Impatiens, especially the common garden annual I. balsamina.
6. Any soothing or healing agent or circumstance.
7. The balsam fir.
—v.t. To anoint with balsam; salve. [<L balsamum <Gk. balsamon balsam tree, ? <Semitic. Doublet of BALM.]
—bal·sa·ma·ceous (bôl′sə·mā′shəs) adjective