balsamic

American  

[bawl-som-ik, ‐-sam‐] / bɔlˈsɒm ɪk, ‐ˈsæm‐ /

noun

1. balsamic vinegar, an aromatic vinegar aged in wood barrels.

   a recipe for baked ham with balsamic, bourbon, and honey.

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adjective

1. using balsamic vinegar as a primary ingredient.

   Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic dressing while they are still warm.

2. of the nature of, consisting of, or resembling balsam.

   Myrrh oil has a woody, balsamic scent when heated for aromatherapy.

Etymology

Origin of balsamic

First recorded in 1680–90; balsam ( def. ) + -ic ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

balsamic

Before she left, she filled multiple bags with pesto, pasta, Parmigiano reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar and salt, and made it last back home before she returned to Italy, this time in Florence, in February 2024.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 8, 2026

The appetizers, especially the charred grapes with mozzarella cheese and balsamic vinegar cream, were better than the main course.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 1, 2026

It’s then finished off with sliced persimmon, thyme leaves, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar glaze and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

From Salon ● Sep. 6, 2025

The balsamic vinegar is outstanding, and the Spanish-style Arbequina oil has a delicious, buttery flavor.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 25, 2025

Molly has made a big salad and balsamic dressing.

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline