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

It's made with not lanolin, but olive oil, cocoa seed butter, mango seed butter, and beeswax. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Apr. 2024

Kiara products are all gluten-free, GMO-free, and most are also vegan (with the exception of the salve, which contains beeswax). —Luke Knapp, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2024

Eventually Whaley hopes that the inmates can package the honey to sell at local stores as well as items made with the beeswax including lip balms, candles, soaps and more. —Alicia Devine, USA TODAY, 5 Apr. 2024

This sunscreen moisturizes the skin with beeswax, jojoba, and sunflower oil. —Ambrosia V. Brody, Parents, 20 Feb. 2024

The main thing to look for in a good lip balm for winter is an occlusive ingredient, like beeswax or shea butter, which will create a moisture-locking barrier that prevents your lips from immediately drying out. —Carina Finn, Bon Appétit, 18 Jan. 2024

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

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing beeswax

• none of one's beeswax

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