'balsamy' originates from English, specifically from the noun 'balsam' plus the adjectival suffix '-y', where 'balsam' comes via Late Latin 'balsamum' meaning a fragrant resin or balm.

'balsamy' developed from the English noun 'balsam' (from Late Latin 'balsamum' and Greek 'balsamon', ultimately from Semitic roots such as Hebrew 'bôšem' meaning 'perfume'), with the addition of the productive English suffix '-y' to form an adjective.

Initially the related root referred specifically to the fragrant resin or ointment ('balsam'); over time adding '-y' produced an adjective meaning 'having the qualities of balsam'—fragrant or soothing—and extended figuratively to mean 'soothing' or 'comforting'.