Waxen: meaning, definitions and examples

appearance

The term 'waxen' refers to a pale, smooth, and often delicate appearance, reminiscent of wax. It is commonly used to describe someone's complexion, suggesting an unhealthy or ghostly quality. Additionally, it can denote an artificial or insincere quality, indicating that something looks more like a wax representation than a true entity. The word is often used in literature to convey a sense of eeriness or fragility, particularly in relation to faces or skin.

blanched, pale, sallow, wan

Examples of usage

• Her waxen face betrayed her illness.

• The doll had a waxen sheen, making it seem lifelike.

• He had a waxen appearance after spending too long indoors.

• The painter captured the waxen glow of her skin beautifully.