First Known Use: 1629
Dictionary
balm of Gilead
balm of Gil·e·ad \-ˈgi-lē-əd\
Definition of BALM OF GILEAD
1
: an agency that soothes, relieves, or heals
2
: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora opobalsamum syn. C. meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves; also : a fragrant oleoresin from this tree
3
: any of several poplars having resinous buds: as a : a hybrid North American tree (Populus gileadensis) with broadly cordate leaves that are pubescent especially on the underside b : balsam poplar
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Origin of BALM OF GILEAD
Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for its balm
Medical Dictionary
balm of Gilead
noun balm of Gil·e·ad \-ˈgil-ē-əd\
Medical Definition of BALM OF GILEAD
1
: a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves
2
: a fragrant oleoresin from the balm of Gilead—called also Mecca balsam
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