[f. WAX v.2 + -ING1.]
1. The process of covering or dressing with wax.
c. 1440. Promp. Parv., 519/1. Waxynge, wythe wax, ceracio.
1538. Elyot, Dict., Cæratura, the waxinge.
1659. H. Turbervil, Walk Knaves Walk, 8. Lastly, you must observe the waxing of the boot.
1818. Art Preserv. Feet, 137. The waxing of the thread is … for the purpose of preventing it from slipping.
1857. Miller, Elem. Chem., Org., xi. § 2. 673. Previous to sale,… another process [of currying leather], technically termed waxing, is performed.
1890. Anthony’s Photogr. Bull., III. 344. Refusal to strip, is … due to … touching the waxed surface with the fingers after waxing.
b. (See quot. 1858.)
1815. S. Parkes, Chem. Ess., II. 148, note. In printing those silk handkerchiefs called Bandanas, a process called waxing is still followed.
1858. Simmonds, Dict. Trade, Waxing, the process of stopping out colours in calico-printing.
† c. A method of cheating at dice. Obs.
1726. [see TOPPING vbl. sb.1 c].
2. concr. Wax as a polish on furniture.
1825. J. Nicholson, Operat. Mechanic, 745. Waxing…, like varnish, is attended with inconveniences as well as advantages.
