Japan wax

noun

a pale-yellow, waxy, water-insoluble solid obtained from the fruit of certain sumacs, especially Rhus succedanea, native to Japan and China: used chiefly in the manufacture of candles, furniture polishes, and floor waxes.

Origin of Japan wax

First recorded in 1855–60

Also called Japan tallow, sumac wax.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

British Dictionary definitions for japan wax

Japan wax

Japan tallow

noun

a yellow wax obtained from the berries of plants of the genus Rhus. It is used in making matches, soaps, candles, and polishes

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012