Bāl'sam1, n.
n. [Lat. balsamum, Gr. βάλσαμον. Cf. BALM.] 1. A resin containing more or less of an essential or volatile oil. ¶ The balsams are aromatic resinous substances, flowing spontaneously or by incision from certain plants; and a great variety of substances pass under this name. Among the true balsams, are the balm of Gilead, and the balsams of copaiva, Peru, and Tolu.
- (Bot.) (a.) A species of tree, Abies balsamea. (b.) A popular annual garden plant of the genus Impatiens; balsamine. Loudon.
- (Med.) A mixture composed of natural balsams and other articles. Dunglison.