n.
Pronunciation: ' sav, ' säv, ' salv, ' sälv
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English sealf; akin to Old High German salba salve, Greek olp ē oil flask
Date: before 12th century
1 : an unctuous adhesive substance for application to wounds or sores
2 : a remedial or soothing influence or agency <a salve to their hurt feelings>