balm

[bahm] / bɑm /

NOUN

oily substance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

lotion ointment potion salve

STRONG

analgesic application balsam cerate compound cream demulcent dressing embrocation emollient formula medicine poultice preparation prescription unction unguent

WEAK

soother soothing agent

NOUN

something soothing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

consolation palliative solace

STRONG

alleviation anodyne assuagement comfort curative cure easement mitigation refreshment relief remedy restorative

WEAK

soother

Antonyms

STRONG

disease hurt injury pain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

All of that access can feel like a balm for the ever-embattled press, a deserved return to pride of place.

From Slate • Mar. 18, 2026

The moon is right there on your phone now and that can be a fleeting balm for our troubled souls.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

We’ll take our balm where we can find it, especially now.

From Salon • Jan. 31, 2026

Slower price growth has been little balm for a stagnant housing market.

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

Wide flush the fields; the softening air is balm;

From New Word-Analysis by William Swinton