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 formula uses beeswax and black tea to give you genuinely smudge-free lashes for up to 12 hours, which is particularly welcome during Europe’s sticky summer days. —Angela Lei, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025

Find out about the equipment and site(s) needed to get started with your own adventure with these stinging insects that produce delicious honey and useful beeswax. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025

This reusable beeswax wrap offers the same convenience of protecting your foods without the potential harmful effects of PVC. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2025

This chemical signature is nearly identical to today's beeswax and eerily similar to modern honey. —Pranjal Malewar, New Atlas, 10 Aug. 2025

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