1. a waxy solid substance obtained from petroleum, used for making candles, waterproofing, and other purposes
2. kerosene or a similar petroleum-based fuel oil
Usage: British

Examples

• The candles were made from pure paraffin wax.
• She dipped the fabric in paraffin to waterproof it.
• The old lamp burned paraffin instead of electricity.
• Paraffin is commonly used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
• The British campers filled their stove with paraffin.
• Hot paraffin treatments are popular at spas for softening hands.