Japan wax

American  

noun

1. 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.

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Japan wax British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of Japan wax

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Japan wax is almost entirely saponifiable, while beeswax and spermaceti yield about half their weights to the petroleum spirit or ether.

From Project Gutenberg