■ noun
1》 (also ~ wax ) chiefly Brit. a flammable waxy solid obtained by distilling petroleum or shale and used for sealing and waterproofing and in candles, cosmetics, etc.
2》 (also ~ oil or liquid ~ ) Brit. a liquid fuel made similarly, especially kerosene.
3》 Chemistry old-fashioned term for alkane .
Origin
C19: from Ger., from L. parum 'little' + affinis 'related' (from its low reactivity).