Definition of "balm" []

• A chiefly Mediterranean perennial herb (Melissa officinalis) in the mint family, grown for its lemon-scented foliage, which is used as a seasoning or for tea. Also called lemon balm. (noun)
• Any of several related plants in the mint family, such as the bee balm and the horse balm. (noun)
• Any of various aromatic resins exuded from several trees and shrubs, especially the balm of Gilead (Commiphora) and related plants. (noun)
• An aromatic salve or oil. (noun)
• A pleasing aromatic fragrance. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "All it is a balm from the relentless assault of cliched grimness we endure in SciFi."
• "Lip balm is the main thing I could not live without!"
• "For the uninitiated: some kinds of lip gloss/balm is supposed to be “addictive” in a sense, particularly those that make the lips feel cool and tingly."