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

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

There’s one fly in this ointment of market serenity: Mr. Trump’s tariff proposals. —Laurent Belsie, The Christian Science Monitor, 30 Oct. 2024

Breast pumps and lactation supplies, such as pump accessories, nursing pads, milk storage bags and nipple cream/ointments. —Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 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