An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. A substance that is secreted by bees and is used by them for constructing the honeycomb, that is a dull yellow solid plastic when warm, and that is composed of a mixture of esters, cerotic acid, and hydrocarbons; called also beeswax.
   

2. Any of various substances resembling the wax of bees (Merriam-Webster.com).

Etymology (EN): M.E. waxen, O.E. weaxan; cognate with Du. was, Ger. Wachs.

Etymology (PE): Mum “wax; wax-candle.”