beeswax

noun

bees·wax | \ ˈbēz-ˌwaks

Definition of beeswax

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 To make matters sweeter, Homestead also sells honey and beeswax candles from their own bee hives. — Zareen Syed, chicagotribune.com, 21 Sep. 2021 Each family has its own technique, but the basic process is always an intricate one: Large chunks of beeswax sourced from the Chiapas region are first melted over a fire. — New York Times, 21 Sep. 2021 Aroma: Rich Sherry aromas combined with Morello cherry and a hint of beeswax polish. — Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 7 Sep. 2021 One son, Eisig, established the first national meadery and beeswax facility in Poland. — Stacey Pfeffer, sun-sentinel.com, 1 Sep. 2021 Others swear by all manner of salves and lotions crafted with beeswax and grape seed oil. — David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2021 Displays include the Guinness World Records' largest beeswax candle. — John J. Kim, chicagotribune.com, 12 May 2021 The wine feels fresh and lively in my mouth, with modest tannins and flavors of cassis and beeswax. — Michael Alberty | For The Oregonian/oregonlive, oregonlive, 28 June 2021 Aquaphor Lip Repair stick as an emollient, Sun Bum CocoBalm with coconut and aloe vera to hydrate, and Avène Care for Sensitive Lips, which contains shea butter and beeswax. — Lindy Segal, Glamour, 5 May 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'beeswax.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.