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

Each is filled with rice and suspended from two lengths of rubber tubing joined with a knob of beeswax. — Sharon Mizota, latimes.com, "Eight ceramic octopus traps? Why Daniel Silva's show at Baert Gallery has us hooked," 23 June 2018 Handmade in California by artist, beekeeper, and farmer Erin Pata, these triple-wick wonders are 100% raw beeswax for a cozy and healthy vibe. — Allison Young, Sunset, "Top 10 Holistic Home Products," 22 Jan. 2018 Weleda is made with a blend of plant extracts — like viola tricolor, calendula, and chamomile — and mixed with beeswax. — Zoë Weiner, Teen Vogue, "Rihanna Uses $12 Weleda Moisturizer," 9 July 2018 Raw sugar does the sloughing, while hydrating beeswax keeps lips soft and smooth. — Melanie Rud Chadwick, Allure, "Frank Body Is Launching a Cherry Balm Lip Scrub," 19 Mar. 2018 Strike back with this combination of jojoba oil, essential oils, and beeswax. — Allison Young, Sunset, "10 Essential Summer Beauty Products," 22 Jan. 2018 Rub the broken leaves directly onto burns, bites, or blisters, or turn it into a salve by adding beeswax and olive oil. — Sunset, "Top 10 Medicinal Plants You Can Grow at Home," 22 Jan. 2018 In a double boiler, melt shea butter and beeswax together. — Allison Young, Good Housekeeping, "How To Make A DIY Face Cream With Skin-Protecting Essential Oils," 15 Nov. 2017 Floral, crisp and tropical, the wine has a slight richness, with a beeswax-like texture. — Esther Mobley, San Francisco Chronicle, "Tasting notes: The diverse, dynamic wines of Lodi," 20 May 2018

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.