balm-of-Gilead
[ bahm-uh v-gil-ee-uh d ]
/ ˈbɑm əvˈgɪl i əd /
noun
any of several plants of the genus Commiphora, especially C. opobalsamum and C. meccanensis, which yield a fragrant oleoresin.
Also called Mecca balsam.
the resin itself, a turbid yellow, green, or brownish-red water-insoluble gluey liquid, used chiefly in perfumery.
a hybrid North American poplar, Populus gileadensis, cultivated as a shade tree.
Origin of balm-of-Gilead
First recorded in 1695–1705
British Dictionary definitions for balm of gilead
balm of Gilead
noun
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 (def. 1), myrrh (def. 1)
the resin exuded by these trees
a North American hybrid female poplar tree, Populus gileadensis (or P. candicans), with broad heart-shaped leaves
a fragrant resin obtained from the balsam fir
See also Canada balsam