ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

Examples of ointment in a Sentence

You should put some ointment on that cut.

Recent Examples on the Web

Hers, described as a rich moisture balm, is a mix between an ointment and an emollient face cream, delivering instant hydration via five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid and skin-barrier-strengthening ceramides, then trapping in said moisture with murumuru butter and polyglutamic acid. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2024

McClane is, in his words, the fly in the ointment, the one wild card that Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman in a towering big-screen debut) couldn’t anticipate. —Janey Tracey, EW.com, 29 Nov. 2024

If your dog experiences localized pain, skin issues like hot spots, or inflammation, a topical CBD ointment might be the perfect solution for them. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2024

Among the artifacts found on site some of the most notable include a bronze cross, a Communion spoon and ampoule, and a small ointment vial. —Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oynement, from Anglo-French uignement, oignement, ultimately from Latin unguentum, from unguere to anoint; akin to Old High German ancho butter, Sanskrit anakti he salves

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ointment

• fly in the ointment

Kids Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a semisolid greasy medicine for use on the skin

Medical Definition

ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt 

: a salve or unguent for application to the skin

specifically : a semisolid medicinal preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material