beeswax

noun

bees·wax ˈbēz-ˌwaks

: 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.

US, informal : personal concern : business

—used chiefly in the phrases mind your own beeswax and none of your beeswax

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Note that beeswax is an ingredient vegans may want to avoid. —

Lorraine Wilde, Treehugger, 16 May 2023 Coconut oil and beeswax moisturize and condition the skin. —

Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 30 Sep. 2022 Shop the site’s artisanal boxes, including Cozy Box set ($62), with blankets, scarves and cocoa powder; the Banquet Box ($73), with an ethnic dinner plate and candle; and the Repose Box, with Amira mug, a lantern and a soy and beeswax tea light candle. —

Victoria Priola, al, 6 Jan. 2022 There are also touches of beeswax and acacia honey flavors with full-on mouthfeel and a finish that is equal parts vivid and sweet. —

Mike Desimone And Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2023 The primer is made with a blend of soft textured beeswax for volume and harder carnauba wax for length. —

Ali Faccenda, Peoplemag, 18 Apr. 2023 Or none of ur beeswax 🐝 JDF & I both chose not to for our own reasons. —

Jessica Wang, EW.com, 26 Mar. 2023 Its beeswax and mineral oil formula will protect against unwanted odors, stains, and moisture and leave the furniture looking smoother and fresher than ever. —

Rachel Simon, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Feb. 2023 In Slovenia, researchers found a 6,500-year-old tooth on a jawbone that was coated with beeswax. —

Lauren Sigfusson, Discover Magazine, 16 Jan. 2018 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'beeswax.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.