<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>any of various fragrant exudations from certain trees, especially trees of the genus <em>Commiphora</em>, as balm-of-Gilead.</li><li>the similar products yielded by the leguminous trees <em>Myroxylon pereirae</em> and <em>M. balsamum</em>, of South America.</li><li>any of certain transparent turpentines, as Canada balsam.</li><li>a plant or tree yielding a balsam.</li><li>any of several plants belonging to the genus <em>Impatiens</em>, as <em>I. balsamina</em>, a common garden annual.</li><li>any aromatic ointment for ceremonial or medicinal use.</li><li>any agency that heals, soothes, or restores: the balsam of understanding and appreciation.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to season with or as if with pepper.</li><li>to sprinkle or cover, as if with pepper; dot.</li><li>to hit with rapidly repeated short jabs.</li><li>to pelt with or as if with shot or missiles: They peppered the speaker with hard questions.</li><li>to discharge (shot or missiles) at something.</li></ul>