ointment
OYNT-munt
/ˈɔɪntmənt/
A smooth, greasy preparation rubbed onto the skin for medicinal treatment or skin hydration.
Ointments are oil-based and greasy, making them occlusive and ideal for dry skin or deep absorption, unlike water-based creams or lotions.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'ungere' (to anoint or smear with oil), which evolved into Old French 'oignement'. The spelling shifted in Middle English under the influence of oil, yielding the familiar form used today for thick medicinal rubs.
Word relationships
- salve: Salve is an older, softer term often associated with soothing botanical or herbal preparations.
- cream: Creams contain significant water content, making them less greasy and faster-absorbing than oil-heavy ointments.
- desiccant: A substance that dries out skin or moisture rather than moisturizing or sealing it.
Commonly confused with
- lotion: Lotion is liquid and runny, designed for large skin surfaces, whereas ointment is thick and oil-dense.
Word family
- oint (verb): An archaic verb meaning to smear with oil or salve.
Collocations
- antibiotic ointment
- apply an ointment
- soothing ointment
- topical ointment
Idioms & expressions
- fly in the ointment
Example sentences
- "Spread a thin layer of antibiotic ointment over the cleaned scratch before covering it." First aid home care
- "The soothing ointment reduced skin inflammation within an hour of application." Dermatology advice
Memory hook
OINTment contains OIL to ANINT bruised skin. Oil-based thick skin cure.
When not to use
Avoid using 'ointment' for thin, runny liquids or alcohol-based liquid sanitizers.
Fun facts
- The classical phrase 'fly in the ointment' comes from the Bible (Ecclesiastes 10:1), referring to dead flies making perfume spoil.
Related words
Explore more words
pomade, anoint, Moisturize, lubricate, lubricant, conditioner
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.