beeswax

noun

bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks How to pronounce beeswax (audio)
1
: a substance that is secreted by honeybees and is used by them for constructing the honeycomb, that is a dull, typically yellow solid that is plastic when warm, and that is composed primarily of a mixture of esters, hydrocarbons, and fatty acids : wax sense 1

Note: Beeswax is typically colorless when first secreted but takes on a yellow or brownish color after bits of pollen, propolis, and other matter becomes mixed in. White beeswax sold commercially consists of yellow beeswax that has been subjected to bleaching or has been filtered to remove impurities. Beeswax is used as an ingredient in various products including candles, cosmetics, and sealants.

2
US, informal : personal concern : business
used chiefly in the phrases mind your own beeswax and none of your beeswax

Examples of beeswax in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Aromas of lavender and beeswax give way to flavors of apricot and almond with a touch of sea spray set into a wine with an alluringly soft texture. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 20 Feb. 2024 Brilliant gold in the glass, this wine has complex aromas of white peach, vanilla, tangerine, and beeswax and flavors of roasted hazelnuts, marzipan, yellow peach, and quince. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 22 Feb. 2024 They’re made from organic cotton, beeswax, organic plant oil, and tree resin. Claire Rutter, Rolling Stone, 7 Dec. 2023 Ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E are highly regarded for their nourishing and protective properties. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2023 It’s made without any silicone, instead relying on beeswax and orange oil to enhance the natural grain in nearly any wood surface. Rebecca Martinson, Rolling Stone, 22 Jan. 2024 Its blend of key ingredients such as beeswax and vitamin E help soothe and moisturize sensitive paws while forming a protective barrier. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2023 Their analysis revealed traces of oils or tars from juniper, cypress, or cedar; various resins, including some from Pistacia trees; and animal fats, beeswax, and plant oils. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 Sep. 2023 Occlusives, like petroleum jelly or beeswax, are designed to help lock in moisture, while humectants, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, attract and retain moisture. Sarah Klein, SELF, 5 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'beeswax.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of beeswax was in 1655

Dictionary Entries Near beeswax

Cite this Entry

“Beeswax.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beeswax. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

beeswax

noun
bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks How to pronounce beeswax (audio)

Medical Definition

beeswax

noun
bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks How to pronounce beeswax (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on beeswax

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