: a waxy mineral mixture of hydrocarbons that is colorless or white when pure and often of unpleasant odor and is used especially in making candles and in electrotyping

Word History

Etymology

German Ozokerit, from Greek ozein to smell + kēros wax — more at cerumen

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ozokerite was in 1834

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Cite this Entry

“Ozokerite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ozokerite. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

: a waxy mineral mixture of hydrocarbons that is colorless or white when pure and often of unpleasant odor and is used especially in making ceresin

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