jojoba

[hoh-hoh-buh]

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

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of jojoba¹

Borrowed into English from Mexican Spanish around 1920–25

Word History and Origins

Origin of jojoba¹

Mexican Spanish

Example Sentences

The nonsticky, vegan lip treatments are meant to heal lips via shea butter, jojoba oil and lysine.

From Los Angeles Times

Unilever’s recent changes included upgrading the formula of Vaseline lotions to add 88 percent more moisture, the company said, and rolling out a Dove line that includes detangling conditioners and recovery masks infused with honey, jojoba, aloe and coconut oil.

From New York Times

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

Ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, vanilla and manuka protect skin in salty, sunny environments.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s like a thin piece of cotton, with beeswax and jojoba oil that is poured over it,” Dobson says.

From Seattle Times