Pronunciation: [bˈɑːm] (IPA) 
The word "balm" is spelled as /bɑːm/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It is a noun used to refer to a fragrant ointment or oil used for soothing or healing purposes. The spelling of the word balm comes from the Old English word "bælm" and has remained unchanged in modern English. The pronunciation of this word features a long vowel sound of /ɑː/ and a silent "l", which is a common characteristic of English spelling.
Balm is a noun that refers to a soothing substance or ointment used to alleviate pain or discomfort, particularly of the skin. Derived from the Latin word "balsamum," which means resin, balm is commonly associated with providing relief and healing properties in traditional medicine.
In a literal sense, balm typically comes in the form of a soft, oily, or semi-solid substance that is topically applied to affected areas of the body. It is known for its capability to soothe and alleviate irritation or inflammation, such as sunburns, insect bites, or minor cuts. Balm often contains natural ingredients with medicinal properties, such as herbs, essential oils, or medicinal plants known for their healing effects.
Beyond topical applications, balm can also have a figurative meaning. It may refer to something that provides emotional or mental comfort, similar to a soothing ointment for physical pain. For example, "his kind words were a balm for her broken heart." In this sense, balm represents anything that brings solace, relief, or healing to a troubled or distressed person or situation.
Overall, balm encompasses both the physical and metaphorical dimensions of relief, acting as a remedy for physical ailments or emotional distress. It plays a significant role in promoting well-being, whether through its natural applications or its symbolic associations with soothing and comforting aspects of life.
1. Balsam. 2. An ointment, especially a fragrant ointment. 3. A soothing application.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• A fragrant plant; a valuable ointment that soothes and heals; that which soothes, mitigates, or heals.
• To anoint with balm; to soothe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "balm" has its origins in Middle English, deriving from the Old English word "bælm". It can be traced back to the Latin word "balsamum" or "balsam", which in turn stems from the Greek word "bálsamon". The Greek word was borrowed from the Semitic language family, specifically from Hebrew "bōśem" or Aramaic "bośma". These Semitic languages are believed to have borrowed the word from an ancient Egyptian source. Ultimately, "balm" refers to a fragrant resinous substance, typically obtained from certain trees or plants, which has soothing and healing properties.
