2. a tree which yields a fragrant resinous substance, especially one used in medicine.
▪ the resinous substance yielded by a balm.
3. a bushy herb of the mint family, with leaves smelling and tasting of lemon.
▪ used in names of other aromatic herbs of the mint family, e.g. bee balm.
Word OriginMiddle English (in the sense ‘preparation for embalming, fragrant resinous substance’): from Old French basme, from Latin balsamum (see balsam).