ointment

noun

oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt How to pronounce ointment (audio)
Synonyms of ointmentnext
: a salve or unguent for application to the skin
see also:
fly in the ointment

Examples of ointment in a Sentence

You should put some ointment on that cut.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Additionally, about 3% to 6% of people have a skin allergy to neomycin, a key ingredient in most antibiotic ointments, according to the National Institutes of Health. — Dr. Jill Grimes, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 This type of product is often formulated as an ointment to provide a tight waterproof barrier and stay on the skin longer than creams. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026 Before mayonnaise was used as a condiment, it was initially used as an ointment. — Lauren David, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2026 Waad was treated at the hospital, but the family can no longer afford the medication ointments necessary to help her heal. — Diaa Ostaz, ABC News, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for ointment

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oynement, from Anglo-French uignement, oignement, ultimately from Latin unguentum, from unguere to anoint; akin to Old High German ancho butter, Sanskrit anakti he salves

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ointment was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing ointment

Rhymes for ointment

See All Rhymes for ointment

Browse Nearby Words

oint
ointment
Oise
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ointment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ointment. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ointment

noun
oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt How to pronounce ointment (audio)
: a semisolid greasy medicine for use on the skin

Medical Definition

ointment

noun
oint·​ment ˈȯint-mənt How to pronounce ointment (audio)
: a salve or unguent for application to the skin
specifically : a semisolid medicinal preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material

More from Merriam-Webster on ointment

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for ointment

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ointment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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