wax
UK: wæks | US: wæks
n. a solid, oily substance that melts when heated, used for making candles, polish, etc.
v. to increase gradually in size, strength, or intensity (e.g., "The moon waxes and wanes.")
v. to coat or treat with wax
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The word "wax" originates from Old English weax, meaning "beeswax," which traces back to Proto-Germanic wahsam. It shares roots with German Wachs and Dutch was. The verb sense of "to grow" (e.g., "wax poetic") derives from Old English weaxan, meaning "to increase," related to Proto-Germanic wahsijaną. Though homographic, the noun (substance) and verb (to grow) evolved from distinct but phonetically convergent roots.
She used beeswax to make homemade candles.
The moon waxes to its full size over two weeks.
He waxed his car to protect the paint.
Her enthusiasm for the project began to wax as deadlines approached.
The floor shone after being waxed thoroughly.