Definition of OINTMENT

ointment

Plural: ointments

Noun

  • A topical, viscous preparation applied to the skin.
  • semisolid preparation (usually containing a medicine) applied externally as a remedy or for soothing an irritation
  • toiletry consisting of any of various substances in the form of a thick liquid that have a soothing and moisturizing effect when applied to the skin
  • A viscous preparation of oils and/or fats, usually containing medication, used as a treatment or as an emollient.
  • A substance used to anoint, as in religious rituals.

Examples

  • Applying an OINTMENT to a sore spot on the board, he healed his low score with a triple-word play.

Origin / Etymology

A later form (as if oint + -ment) of Middle English oinement, borrowed from Old French oignement (“an anointing”), from oigner, oindre, ongier (“to anoint”), from Latin ung(u)ō (“I anoint”), from Proto-Indo-European *h₃engʷ- (“to smear, anoint”). Partly displaced native Old English sealf, whence modern salve.

Scrabble Score: 10

ointment: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
ointment: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
ointment: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 13

ointment: valid Words With Friends Word