Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

waxen

adjective
/ˈwaksən/
Definition
Having a smooth, pale, and somewhat shiny appearance resembling wax.
Examples
  • Her waxen face betrayed no emotion, making it difficult to read her thoughts.
  • The moon shone with a waxen glow, casting an eerie light over the landscape.
  • He had a waxen look about him, as if he had seen too much and felt too little.
Meaning
The term ‘waxen’ often describes something that appears unnaturally pale or smooth, similar to the qualities of wax. It can refer to physical features, such as skin or color, or metaphorically to emotions and expressions that seem lifeless or cold.
Synonyms
  • pale
  • lifeless
  • glossy
  • smooth
  • white