das Wachs
wax
A solid but easily moldable substance that melts when heated and is often used to make candles, for sealing, or as a care product.
EXAMPLE
Die Kerze ist aus echtem Bienenwachs gemacht.
The candle is made from real beeswax.
das Wachs
wax
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Meanings
das Wachs
earwax
The substance that forms in the ear canal; earwax.
EXAMPLE
Der Arzt musste ihm das Wachs aus den Ohren entfernen.
The doctor had to remove the wax from his ears.
Usage tips
Pronunciation trap
The noun 'das Wachs' (wax) sounds almost the same as the verb 'wachsen' (to grow). Pay attention to the context to see whether it is referring to a substance ('das Wachs') or a process of becoming bigger ('wachsen').
EXAMPLE
Die Kerze ist aus heißem Wachs gemacht.
The candle is made of hot wax.
Part of compounds
'Wachs' (wax) is a common component of compound nouns. If you see '-wachs' at the end of a word, it usually refers to a specific type of this substance.
EXAMPLE
Für die Möbelpflege verwendet er ein spezielles Holzwachs.
He uses a special wood wax for furniture care.
Typical collocations
In its main meaning, 'Wachs' (wax) is often used with verbs like 'schmelzen' (to melt), 'erhitzen' (to heat), or 'auftragen' (to apply). Common adjectives are 'flüssig' (liquid) or 'heiß' (hot).
EXAMPLE
Für das Siegel erhitzte er das rote Wachs über einer Flamme.
For the seal, he heated the red wax over a flame.
Context clue: ear
You can almost always recognize the meaning 'Ohrenschmalz' (earwax) from the context. The word is then used together with 'Ohr' (ear) or in a medical context.
EXAMPLE
Man sollte nicht versuchen, das Wachs selbst aus dem Ohr zu entfernen.
You should not try to remove the wax from your ear yourself.
In real life
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