Synonyms for

Wax

Verb / wæks / Another word for wax — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a sticky substance made from beeswax, used for making candles, furniture polish, and other things

Synonyms & similar words

wane rise full mount climb beeswax polish buff shine gloss smooth coat wane diminish decline weaken dwindle fade ebb lessen subside

Synonyms by register

Formal

grow increase expand augment

Informal

get bigger build up fill out

Literary

waxen burgeon swell

Antonyms

wane diminish decrease shrink recede ebb

Common collocations

  • wax poetic
  • wax lyrical
  • wax and wane
  • wax seal
  • carving wax
  • beeswax candle
  • shoe wax

Word family

noun wax
verb wax

Usage note

The verb 'wax' meaning to grow or increase is archaic and primarily found in literary or formal contexts. It is most commonly encountered in the idiom 'wax poetic' or 'wax lyrical'.

Example sentences

  1. I used wax to make a candle.
  2. She waxed her skis before the race.
  3. The car looks shiny after I waxed it.
  4. The floor needs to be waxed.
  5. I love the smell of beeswax candles.

Quotes

  • Wax on, wax off. - Mr. Miyagi, The Karate Kid
  • I'm not very good at waxing poetic. - Ryan Reynolds
  • I'm a waxer. - Paris Hilton

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