Wax
- Pronunciation
- /waks/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Wax
- Plural
- Waxes
Definition
A secretion produced by various insects, particularly bees, used for constructing nests or protecting their bodies.
Etymology
Old English 'weax', related to German 'Wachs', both of which have roots in the Proto-Indo-European word 'wōk-s' meaning 'thing that grows or increases'.
Example
Honeybees produce wax to construct and repair the cells of their hives.
Synonyms
- Secretion
- Beeswax
Related Terms
- Honeycomb
- Bees
- Secretion
- Nest construction
Usage Notes
Wax produced by different insects can vary significantly in chemical composition and use. For example, beeswax is primarily produced by honeybees and is different from the wax produced by other insects, such as scale insects.