Canada balsam

noun

Can·​a·​da balsam ˈka-nə-də- 

: a viscid yellowish to greenish oleoresin exudate of the balsam fir (Abies balsamea) that solidifies to a transparent mass and is used as a transparent cement especially in microscopy

Word History

Etymology

Canada, country in North America

First Known Use

1754, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

Canada balsam

noun

ˌkan-əd-ə- 

: an oleoresin exuded by the balsam fir and used as a transparent cement especially in microscopy for mounting specimens and in optical instruments

called also Canada turpentine