paraffin

[ˈpærəfɪn]

paraffin Definition

  • 1a flammable, whitish, translucent, waxy solid consisting of a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons, obtained by distillation from petroleum or shale and used in candles, cosmetics, polishes, and sealing and waterproofing compounds.
  • 2a liquid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained by distilling petroleum, used as a fuel, solvent, and refrigerant and in lamps and aerosol cans.

Using paraffin: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paraffin" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The candle was made of paraffin wax.

  • Example

    Paraffin oil is used as a fuel for lamps.

  • Example

    The doctor applied a paraffin dressing to the wound.

paraffin Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for paraffin

Phrases with paraffin

  • a treatment for arthritis in which the hands or feet are immersed in warm liquid paraffin

    Example

    She went to the spa for a paraffin bath to soothe her arthritis pain.

  • a thin slice of tissue embedded in paraffin wax for microscopic examination

    Example

    The pathologist examined the paraffin section of the biopsy under the microscope.

  • a portable stove that burns paraffin oil

    Example

    We used a paraffin stove to cook our meals while camping.

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Summary: paraffin in Brief

Paraffin [ˈpærəfɪn] is a flammable, waxy solid or liquid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained by distilling petroleum or shale. It is used in various products such as candles, cosmetics, polishes, and sealing compounds, as well as a fuel, solvent, and refrigerant. Examples include 'The candle was made of paraffin wax.' and 'The doctor applied a paraffin dressing to the wound.' Paraffin extends into phrases like 'paraffin bath,' a treatment for arthritis, and 'paraffin section,' a thin slice of tissue embedded in paraffin wax for microscopic examination.