Japan wax
English
Etymology
From the location (Japan) where this waxy substance was first refined and used.
Noun
Japan wax (countable and uncountable, plural Japan waxes)
- A yellowish fat obtained by refining the protective coat from the berries of various Asian sumacs of genus Rhus.
- 1899 June, Robert C. Purcell, “Japan Wax as a Substitute of Beeswax in Ointments and Cerates”, in Merck Report, volume 8, page 257:
- Of recent years Japan wax is an important article of commerce, and it was while examining a lot of several carloads some time ago that the though occurred to me why cannot it be used pharmaceutically?
- 1963, Harry Bennett, Natural & synthetic waxes, page 146:
- There are many grades of genuine Japan waxes available which are distinguished by brand names.
- 2011, NIIR Board of Consultants & Engineers, The Complete Technology Book on Wax and Polishes, page 51:
- Japan wax is compatible with beeswax, cocoa butter, and glycerides.