balm-of-Gilead

[ bahm-uhv-gil-ee-uhd ]

noun

1. any of several plants of the genus Commiphora, especially C. opobalsamum and C. meccanensis, which yield a fragrant oleoresin.
2. Also called Mecca balsam. the resin itself, a turbid yellow, green, or brownish-red water-insoluble gluey liquid, used chiefly in perfumery.
3. a hybrid North American poplar, Populus gileadensis, cultivated as a shade tree.

balm of Gilead

noun

1. any of several trees of the burseraceous genus Commiphora , esp C. opobalsamum of Africa and W Asia, that yield a fragrant oily resin Compare balm myrrh
2. the resin exuded by these trees
3. a North American hybrid female poplar tree, Populus gileadensis (or P. candicans ), with broad heart-shaped leaves
4. a fragrant resin obtained from the balsam fir See also Canada balsam

Word History and Origins

Origin of balm-of-Gilead¹

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example Sentences

Once in a long while you may see a balm-of-Gilead tree, or a clump of sapling poplars, planted near the door.

From Project Gutenberg

The white fir grew to a much larger tree than the Balm-of-Gilead he had known in the East, and the lower branches were tough.

From Project Gutenberg

They were making it into five hay-cocks, which were arranged in a circle under a huge balm-of-Gilead tree.

From Project Gutenberg

What an unlooked for flight was this from our shadowy avenue of black-ash and balm-of-gilead trees into the infinite!

From Project Gutenberg

Nor was the enthusiasm of Billy's send-off balm-of-Gilead to his soul as the carriage moved away from the hotel steps.

From Project Gutenberg