What does paraffin mean?
Paraffin is a petroleum-derived substance that is most commonly associated with the waxy material used in candles, although its meaning varies by region. In American English, paraffin usually means a solid wax made from refined petroleum. In British English, paraffin more often refers to kerosene, a liquid fuel used in lamps, stoves, and heaters, while the word can also denote petroleum jelly in some contexts. The material became valuable because it burns cleanly, stores well, and can be molded into candles or other useful products. Outside the United States, British speakers’ frequent use of “paraffin” for fuel oil can make the word seem more connected to lighting and heating than to candle wax. Reading the surrounding context is therefore important, especially in older writing and product labels.
nounParaffin is a waxy substance obtained from petroleum, used especially for making candles and other products that require a stable, combustible wax. In British English, the word can also mean kerosene, the liquid fuel used in lamps and heaters; in American English, its use more commonly refers to solid paraffin wax.
- A solid, waxy substance derived from petroleum, used especially for candles, sealing, waterproofing, and related products.
- In British English, a liquid petroleum fuel, especially kerosene, used in lamps, stoves, and heaters.
- In British English and some other regional varieties, petroleum jelly, especially when used medicinally as a laxative or skin protectant.
"The candles are made from paraffin and burn slowly with a steady flame."
"She trimmed the paraffin around the edge of the candle before lighting it."
"The old heater was designed to burn paraffin rather than electricity."
Usually used when referring to individual petroleum-derived hydrocarbons or to different kinds of paraffin material.
"The laboratory compared the properties of several purified paraffins."
The same word can mean a candle’s wax in American English and the oil that once lit a lamp in British English.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paraffin come from?
The word entered English in the 19th century through German Paraffin, which was based on Latin paraffinum. The Latin term was associated with a family of hydrocarbons considered chemically similar or “related” to one another. Its earliest chemical uses were associated with illuminating and fuel products, and the word later became widely associated with solid petroleum wax as well.
Related word forms
How paraffin is actually used
The term is more closely associated with solid wax in American English. In British English, it frequently means kerosene, and “liquid paraffin” can refer to a medicinal paraffin oil or, contextually, to liquid paraffin wax. The regional difference is important when reading older texts or instructions.
Easily confused with paraffin
In British English, paraffin commonly means kerosene, whereas in American English the term usually refers to solid wax.
Petroleum jelly is a soft, semi-solid product made from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons, while paraffin generally refers to wax or, in some British uses, fuel oil.