wax insect

noun

1
: any of several scales of the family Coccidae that secrete a wax from their bodies
especially : a Chinese scale (Ericerus pe-la) that yields much of the commercial Chinese wax
2
: any of several homopterous insects of the family Fulgoridae that secrete a wax used by the Chinese (as for candles)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near wax insect

Cite this Entry

“Wax insect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wax%20insect. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!