Definition

Noun 1. Any of various insects that secrete a waxy substance: A "wax insect" is a type of insect known for producing and excreting wax, often as a protective coating or for building structures. These insects are studied for their unique biological processes and the commercial value of their wax.

Examples of Usage

• The wax insect is farmed in some regions for the high-quality wax it produces.
• Scientists are studying the secretions of the wax insect to develop new biomaterials.
• A common example of a wax insect is the scale insect from the family .

Advanced Usage

• As a subject of entomology: The term is used in scientific contexts to categorize and discuss insects with wax-secreting adaptations.
  • The paper focused on the phylogeny of the wax insect.
• In apiculture and agriculture: While not bees, wax insects are sometimes discussed in broader contexts concerning insect-produced waxes or as pests.
  • The orchard was inspected for pests, including the wax insect, which can damage fruit trees.

Variants and Related Words

• Scale insect (n): A common type of wax insect. Many scale insects secrete a waxy covering.
• Wax scale (n): Another term for certain wax-producing insects.
• Wax producer (n): A general descriptive term for any organism that secretes wax.

Synonyms

• Wax-secreting insect: A descriptive synonym that explicitly states the insect's function.
• Coccid (n): A more specific scientific term for insects in the superfamily Coccoidea, which includes many wax-producing species.

Notes on Meaning

The term "wax insect" is a compound noun. Its primary and only meaning refers directly to the biological classification of insects characterized by wax secretion. It does not refer to insects that are made of wax or to toys. The wax is a secretion from the insect's body, not a material applied to it.

Noun

1. any of various insects that secrete a waxy substance