(~s)
1.
An ~ is a smooth thick substance that is put on sore skin or a wound to help it heal.
A range of ~s and creams is available for the treatment of eczema...
He received ~ for his flaking skin.
N-MASS
2.
If you describe someone or something as a fly in the ~, you think they spoil a situation and prevent it being as successful as you had hoped.
Rachel seems to be the one fly in the ~ of Caroline’s smooth life.
PHRASE: v-link PHR