beeswax

noun

bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks 

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

The powder, meanwhile, contains beeswax, which helps give the nail a glossy finish. — Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 5 June 2026

To keep your lips smooth and hydrated year-round, apply this lip balm, which is formulated with beeswax and shea butter. — Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026

The military used beeswax to waterproof canvas tents and rucksacks, use in sunscreen and camouflage, and wax and coat planes to reduce drag and save money on fuel. — Literary Hub, 27 May 2026

Avoid plastic wrap or zip-top bags, and instead wrap your cheese in parchment paper, wax paper, beeswax wraps, or cheese paper, giving it a chance to breathe while retaining its moisture. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing beeswax

• none of one's beeswax

Rhymes for beeswax

• attacks
• backpacks
• borax
• callbacks
• carfax
• climax
• cutbacks
• drawbacks
• feedbacks
• flashbacks
• greenbacks
• haystacks

Kids Definition

beeswax

noun

bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks 

: wax entry 1 sense 1

Medical Definition

beeswax

noun

bees·​wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks 

1

: wax sense 1

2

a

: yellow wax

b

: white wax