Salve - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A salve is a soothing ointment used to heal or protect the skin, often made from oils or herbs. It can also mean to ease pain or distress metaphorically.
Definition:
A soothing ointment for healing or relieving wounds, sores, or skin irritations.
Synonyms:
balm, ointment, lotion, cream
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
irritant, aggravator
Common Collocations:
apply salve, healing salve, lip salve
Derivatives:
salving, salved
Usage Tips:
Use "salve" as a noun for a healing substance or as a verb meaning to soothe or alleviate distress.
Common Phrases:
salve for the soul, spiritual salve
Etymology:
From Old English "sealf," related to German "Salbe," meaning an ointment or healing substance.
Examples:
- 1. She applied a herbal salve to the burn.
- 2. The kind words acted as a salve for his grief.
- 3. This lip salve prevents chapping in winter.
- 4. He tried to salve his guilt with apologies.