liniment

American  

[lin-uh-muhnt] / ˈlɪn ə mənt /

noun

1. a liquid or semiliquid preparation for rubbing on or applying to the skin, as for sprains or bruises, usually soothing or counterirritating.

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liniment British  

/ ˈlɪnɪmənt /

noun

1. a medicated liquid, usually containing alcohol, camphor, and an oil, applied to the skin to relieve pain, stiffness, etc

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Etymology

Origin of liniment

1375–1425; late Middle English < Late Latin linīmentum ointment, equivalent to linī ( re ) (for Latin linere to smear) + -mentum -ment

Example Sentences

These revivals will be greeted with much good will, though what they might need is liniment.

From New York Times • Jan. 5, 2023

Neither does the strong waft of liniment come out of the changing rooms if you happen to be standing close enough.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2021

He’d put liniment on and pull on my leg.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2020

On alternate days, Anaya will then apply either a liniment hot sweat or a cold poultice from the knee to the ankle for circulation purposes.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2016

He pulled out his shirt in back, poured a little liniment in his pink palm and, reaching around, he fell slowly to rubbing his back.

From "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck