Definition of PARAFFIN

paraffin

Plural: paraffins

Noun

  • from crude petroleum; used for candles and for preservative or waterproof coatings
  • a series of non-aromatic saturated hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH(2n+2)
  • (British usage) kerosine
  • A petroleum-based thin and colourless fuel oil.
  • Any member of the alkane hydrocarbons.
  • Paraffin wax.

Verb

  • To impregnate or treat with paraffin.
  • To embed in paraffin wax.

Origin / Etymology

From Latin paraffinum, from parum (too little) + affinis (related, affinity). Therefore low affinity or being chemically neutral.

Synonyms

alkane, alkane series, kerosene, methane series, paraffin oil, paraffin series, paraffin wax

Scrabble Score: 16

paraffin is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
paraffin is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
paraffin is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 18

paraffin is a valid Words With Friends word