jojoba

American  

[hoh-hoh-buh] / hoʊˈhoʊ bə /

noun

1. a shrub, Simmondsia chinensis (orS. californica ), of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, bearing seeds that are the source of an oil jojoba oil used in cosmetics and as a lubricant.

---

jojoba British  

/ həʊˈhəʊbə /

noun

1. a shrub or small tree of SW North America, Simmondsia californica, that has edible seeds containing a valuable oil used in cosmetics

---

Etymology

Origin of jojoba

Borrowed into English from Mexican Spanish around 1920–25

Example Sentences

Packed with ingredients including papaya seed, vitamin E and jojoba, the multi-use, lightweight face oil can also double as a makeup remover.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 2, 2022

Now, products such as Aussie miracle moist conditioner with avocado and jojoba, and Dove deep moisture body wash are labeled “paraben-free,” and retailers including Target and Sephora have “clean” beauty aisles where parabens are forbidden.

From Washington Post • Feb. 15, 2022

Manzanita Kids Animal Seesaw Wood Balancing Game: This classic wood toy is handmade in Seattle from locally sourced, sustainable hardwood that’s hand-polished with organic jojoba oil and beeswax so it’s safe for all ages.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 19, 2019

Shelby has this steamer that I sit underneath, and we’ll put a little peppermint oil and jojoba oil and steam my scalp.

From New York Times • Sep. 4, 2019

After the half hour is up, Mrs. Walton rinses out the conditioner and combs some jojoba oil into my hair from the root to the tip.

From "Like Vanessa" by Tami Charles