Meaning & use

wax

verb·Advanced

To gradually increase in size, strength, or intensity, especially describing the moon.

See it in a sentence

The moon waxes for about two weeks before it begins to wane again.

His enthusiasm for the project waxed as the deadline drew closer.

A note on using this word

Wax and wane together describe a full cycle of increase and decrease, most famously applied to the phases of the moon.

Words with a similar meaning

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Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. noun

A soft, moldable substance made from fat or petroleum, used to make candles, polish, and seals.

She melted the wax and poured it carefully into the candle mold.

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