[bal.sam] n [L balsamum, fr. Gk balsamon, prob. of Sem origin; akin to Heb basham balsam] (bef. 12c) 1 a: an aromatic and usu. oily and resinous substance flowing from various plants; esp: any of several resinous substances containing benzoic or cinnamic acid and used esp. in medicine b: a preparation containing resinous substances and having a balsamic odor
2. a: a balsam-yielding tree; esp: balsam fir b: impatiens; esp: a common garden ornamental (Impatiens balsamina)
3: balm
5. -- bal.sam.ic adj