ETYM French paraffine, from Latin parum too little + affinis akin. So named in allusion to its chemical inactivity.
Common name for alkane, any member of the series of hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH2n+2. The lower members are gases, such as methane (marsh or natural gas). The middle ones (mainly liquid) form the basis of gasoline, kerosene, and lubricating oils, while the higher ones (paraffin waxes) are used in ointment and cosmetic bases.
1. British usage; SYN. paraffin oil.
2. From crude petroleum; used for candles and for preservative or waterproof coatings; SYN. paraffin wax. + prikaži više