Pronunciation: - ' gi-l ē - ə d
Etymology: Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for its balm
Date: 1629
1 : an agency that soothes, relieves, or heals
2 : a small evergreen African and Asian tree ( Commiphora opobalsamum syn. C. meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves also : a fragrant oleoresin from this tree
3 : any of several poplars having resinous buds: as a : a hybrid No. American tree ( Populus gileadensis ) with broadly cordate leaves that are pubescent especially on the underside b : BALSAM POPLAR