ointment etymology

Etymology

Ointment originates from the Middle English word "oinement," which in turn derives from the Old French "oignement." The word ultimately traces back to the Latin "unguentum," meaning "ointment" or "aromatic oil."

Meaning

An ointment is a semi-solid topical medication that is applied to the skin for medicinal purposes. Ointments are typically thicker and more viscous than lotions or creams, and they form a protective layer on the skin.

Origin

Ointments have been used for centuries as a means of delivering medication to the skin. Early ointments were made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, olive oil, and herbs. As medical science advanced, synthetic ingredients were added to ointments to enhance their effectiveness and stability.

Modern Uses

Today, ointments are used to treat a wide range of skin conditions, including:

  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Athlete's foot
  • Burns
  • Cuts and abrasions
  • Fungal infections
  • Bacterial infections

ointment relate terms

  • unguent

    Etymology Comes from the Latin word unguentum which itself derives from the Proto In

  • cream

    Etymology The word cream derives from the Old French word cresme which in turn comes

  • emollient

    Etymology Latin emollire to soften Proto Indo European mel to grind crush so

  • balm

    Etymology The word balm comes from the Latin word balsamum which is derived from the

  • salve

    Etymology Salve is derived from the Latin word salvus meaning safe or healthy

  • smear

    Etymology The word smear comes from the Middle English word smere which means fat

  • salve

    Etymology Salve is derived from the Latin word salvus meaning safe or healthy

  • embalm

    Etymology From Old French embaumer to embalm from Late Latin imbal̆sămāre

  • therapeutic

    Etymology The term therapeutic is derived from the Greek word therapeuein which mea

  • remedy

    Etymology The word remedy comes from the Latin word remedium which means a cure or

  • smirch

    Etymology The word smirch comes from the Middle English word smirken which itself de