English edit

Alternative forms edit

Etymology edit

A later form (as if oint +‎ -ment) of Middle English oinement, borrowed from Old French oignement (an anointing), from oigner, oindre, ongier (to anoint), from Latin ung(u)ō (I anoint), from Proto-Indo-European *h₃engʷ- (to smear, anoint). Partly displaced native Old English sealf, whence modern salve.

Pronunciation edit

Noun edit

ointment (countable and uncountable, plural ointments)

  1. (medicine) A viscous preparation of oils and/or fats, usually containing medication, used as a treatment or as an emollient.
  2. A substance used to anoint, as in religious rituals.

Synonyms edit

Derived terms edit

Related terms edit

Translations edit

See also edit

Further reading edit