Basic Details
Word: Unguent
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A smooth substance used for soothing or healing the skin.
Synonyms: Ointment, salve, balm
Antonyms: Irritant, abrasive
Idioms and Phrases
- Salve one's wounds: To heal emotional or physical hurts. Example: "She used kind words to salve his wounds after the disappointment."
- All balm and no bite: Something that seems soothing but lacks effectiveness. Example: "The promises of quick success turned out to be all balm and no bite."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The doctor recommended an unguent to help ease the irritation on my skin.
Example 2: After a day in the sun, she applied a cooling unguent to her burnt skin.
Example 3: The ancient Egyptians used an unguent made from herbs to treat various ailments.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "unguent" comes from the Latin word "unguentum," which means "to anoint"? It has been used for centuries in various cultures for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Famous Quote
"The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love." – Hubert H. Humphrey
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unguent" mean?
a) A type of cloth
b) A smooth substance for healing skin
c) A kind of food
d) A musical instrument
Answer: b) A smooth substance for healing skin
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unguent"?
a) Lotion
b) Drink
c) Book
d) Flower
Answer: a) Lotion
3. Which of the following is an antonym for "unguent"?
a) Salve
b) Ointment
c) Irritant
d) Balm
Answer: c) Irritant
4. Which sentence uses "unguent" correctly?
a) She played the piano with an unguent.
b) The unguent was carefully applied to the cut to promote healing.
c) He read an unguent before bedtime.
d) The unguent jumped over the fence.
Answer: b) The unguent was carefully applied to the cut to promote healing.
5. Which idiom relates to the concept of healing skin like "unguent"?
a) All balm and no bite
b) A stitch in time saves nine
c) Every cloud has a silver lining
d) A penny for your thoughts
Answer: a) All balm and no bite
