balsam fir

noun

1. a North American fir, Abies balsamea, having dark purplish cones and yielding Canada balsam.
2. the wood of this tree.
3. any of certain other firs.

balsam fir

noun

1. a fir tree, Abies balsamea , of NE North America, that yields Canada balsam Also calledbalsamCanada balsam. See also balm of Gilead

Word History and Origins

Origin of balsam fir¹

An Americanism dating back to 1795–1805

Example Sentences

But on the Isle Royale National Park near Michigan’s border with Canada, balsam firs were being devoured.

From Seattle Times

Overpopulation of the lumbering mammals were causing their own starvation as they outstripped available balsam fir trees — their primary food during long, snowbound winters, Michigan Technological University biologists said.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Dennis mainly harvests balsam fir, supplemented with cedar, pine and juniper.

From New York Times

"This isn't just a matter of people setting fire to balsam firs," said Tucker Carlson on the night following the fire.

From Salon

He got the remaining 30 percent from other suppliers offering balsam firs.

From New York Times