[ 'bɔ:lsəm , 'bɒl- ]
■ noun
1》 an aromatic resinous substance exuded by various trees and shrubs, used as a base for certain fragrances and medical preparations.
↘a tree or shrub which yields ~.
2》 a herbaceous plant cultivated for its helmeted pink or purple flowers. [Genus Impatiens .]
Derivatives
~ic -'samɪk adjective
Origin
OE, via L. from Gk ~on .