colloq. or slang. [Of doubtful origin; possibly evolved from some phrase like to wax angry (arch.), to wax warm (now dial.): see WAX v.1 9 a (b).] Angry feeling; a fit of anger; chiefly to be in a wax.

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1854.  ‘C. Bede,’ Verdant Green, II. vii. I used to rush out in a frightful state of wax, and show a leg.

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1865.  H. Kingsley, Hillyars & Burtons, xxxv. Can’t you get into a wax, old girl?

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1874.  R. H. Belcher, Cramleigh Coll., I. 181. It ain’t my fault if you’ve been bohooin’; so don’t be in a wax with me.

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1880.  ‘Ouida,’ Moths, I. 112. What a wax you’re in, Dolly.

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