waxing moon

American  

noun

1. the moon at any time after the new moon and before the full moon, so called because its illuminated area is increasing.

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Etymology

Origin of waxing moon

First recorded in 1660–70

Compare meaning

How does waxing-moon compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• waxing moon vs. waning moon

Example Sentences

Luckily, around the peak viewing days, a waxing moon sets during the evening and so reduces the prospect of extra light pollution spoiling the event.

From BBC • Jan. 1, 2025

The waxing moon is increasingly brighter as it progresses toward a full moon, and generally rises in the late afternoon or early evening, placing it high in the sky after sunset.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 12, 2022

The waxing moon scoots by Saturn on the evening of Jan. 4, and then Earth’s lunar companion seems to slide by Jupiter on Jan. 5-6.

From Washington Post • Jan. 1, 2022

The month of Ashvin, the first phase of the waxing moon.

From The New Yorker • Jun. 3, 2013

The waxing moon had just set, and the sky glittered with stars.

From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill