Definition of the word wax

The word "wax" comes from the Old English word "weax," meaning "chemical substance that softens under the influence of heat and hardens upon cooling." This Old English word is thought to have originated from a Germanic root word, "wiksan," which had the same meaning. The ultimate origin of this Germanic root word is uncertain, but it may have been derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wiksanom," meaning "to become white," due to the way wax turns white when it hardens. The use of wax in human history can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks. Wax was used in multiple ways, such as to create seals, waterproof materials, and candles for lighting. Its malleable and adhesive properties made it a versatile substance for various purposes. In modern times, wax is still commonly used in many industries, including candles, cosmetics, food packaging, and electronics, to name a few. The wide range of uses and properties of wax continue to make it a valuable and important substance for various applications.