Unguent/ˈʌŋɡwənt/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Medical Application Unguent is often used in medical contexts for soothing skin or healing. After surgery, the nurse applied an unguent to the incision. Pro Tip 2/3Lubricating Property Unguent has a slippery texture, making it suitable for reducing friction. The technician used an unguent to ease the insertion of the catheter. Pro Tip 3/3Use Caution Not all unguents are interchangeable; some are specific to certain conditions. Use the prescribed unguent for burns, not just any ointment.