balm of Gilead

noun phrase

balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgi-lē-əd 

1

: an agency that soothes, relieves, or heals

2

: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora gileadensis synonym C. opobalsamum of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves

also : a fragrant oleoresin from this tree

3

: any of several poplars having resinous buds: such as

a

: a hybrid North American tree (Populus jackii) with broadly cordate leaves that are pubescent especially on the underside

b

: balsam poplar

Word History

Etymology

Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for its balm

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

balm of Gilead

balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgil-ē-əd 

1

: a small African and Asian tree with fragrant evergreen leaves

also : its fragrant oily resin

2

: any of several poplars (as balsam poplar) having buds that are full of resin

Medical Definition

balm of Gilead

noun

balm of Gil·​e·​ad -ˈgil-ē-əd 

1

: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves

2

: a fragrant oleoresin from the balm of Gilead

called also Mecca balsam