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

This reusable beeswax wrap offers the same convenience of protecting your foods without the potentially harmful effects of PVC. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2026

To fill the cracks in all the sculptures, the artist had melted vats of beeswax. —Douglas Stuart, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2026

Immediately oil the entire board (all six sides) and apply a food-safe beeswax cream to seal in moisture. —Staff Author, Martha Stewart, 31 Mar. 2026

The fragrance emanates from handcrafted beeswax candles created by owner Jessica Wolfer. —Sarah Kyrcz, Hartford Courant, 30 Mar. 2026

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