wax

³wax

verb

Definition of WAX

intransitive verb

1

a : to increase in size, numbers, strength, prosperity, or intensity b : to grow in volume or duration c : to grow toward full development

2

: to increase in phase or intensity —used chiefly of the moon, other satellites, and inferior planets

3

: to assume a (specified) characteristic, quality, or state : become <wax indignant> <wax poetic>

Origin of WAX

Middle English, from Old English weaxan; akin to Old High German wahsan to increase, Greek auxanein, Latin augēre — more at eke

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Astronomy Terms

gibbous, nadir, nebulous, penumbra, retrograde, sidereal, syzygy, wane, zenith