sealing wax

noun

1. a resinous preparation, soft when heated, used for sealing letters, documents, etc.

sealing wax

noun

1. a hard material made of shellac, turpentine, and pigment that softens when heated. It is used for sealing documents, parcels, letters, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of sealing wax¹

Middle English word dating back to 1300–50

Example Sentences

Where paper is used for wrapping the specimens, they are best secured by fastening the envelope with sealing-wax.

From Project Gutenberg

One part of marine glue, and two of best red sealing-wax, form a beautiful cement for glass baths.

From Project Gutenberg

Every head shows a different colouring: one red as sealing-wax, another rose-pink, a third caput mortuum.

From Project Gutenberg

I took it from him and noted the three sealing-wax imprints on the flap.

From Project Gutenberg

How is it that a stick of sealing-wax or a lamp-chimney, when rubbed, attracts bits of paper or elder pith?

From Project Gutenberg