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

But this is the Islanders, a team that has thrived on being a fly in the NHL ointment pretty much since Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz came to the Island seven years ago. —Arthur Staple, The Athletic, 25 Mar. 2025

In addition, tear gels or nighttime ointments can also provide relief, especially during sleep. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 30 Dec. 2024

If a lip mask isn't available, 100% petroleum jelly or a healing ointment with hyaluronic acid and ceramides can be used to lock in moisture. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024

Compared to other ointments, Dr. Zalka appreciates that this doesn’t contain lanolin (a common allergen), and instead utilizes a restorative mix of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum to hydrate, heal, and protect skin. —Mary Honkus, Glamour, 15 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for ointment

• appointment
• disappointment
• reappointment

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