ointment
UK[ˈɔɪntmənt]US[ˈɔɪntmənt]
n
A smooth, thick substance that is put on the skin to heal wounds or soreness.
Morpheme Breakdown
oint
ment
oint
anoint
ment
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'ointment' traces its lineage back to the Latin verb 'unguere', meaning to anoint or smear with oil. This verb passed into Old French as 'oindre', and its present participle form 'oignant' (anointing) influenced the English root. The suffix '-ment', also of Latin origin via French, was added to form a noun denoting the substance used for the action. Thus, the literal "means for anointing" evolved into the modern, specific meaning of a medicinal salve applied to the skin.
Analysis
Structure: oint (anoint) + ment (noun suffix)
oint: From Old French 'oindre' (to anoint), from Latin 'unguere' (to anoint, smear). It functions as the verb root meaning to smear or rub on.
ment: A suffix of Latin origin via French, used to form nouns indicating the means or result of an action.
Examples
She applied a soothing ointment to the burn.
This ointment contains antibiotics to prevent infection.
The doctor prescribed a special ointment for the rash.