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
- kerosene
- petroleum jelly
- mineral oil
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.
Example
The pathologist examined the paraffin section of the biopsy under the microscope.
Example
We used a paraffin stove to cook our meals while camping.
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.
