jojoba

noun

jo·​jo·​ba hə-ˈhō-bə How to pronounce jojoba (audio)
: a shrub or small tree (Simmondsia chinensis synonym S. californica) of the box family of southwestern North America with edible seeds that yield a valuable liquid wax used especially in cosmetics

Examples of jojoba in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hair care products containing jojoba oil should be used as instructed on the label. Susan Bard, Verywell Health, 12 Dec. 2024 Formulated with niacinamide, glycerin, hydrolyzed jojoba esters and sodium hyaluronate, the toner also calms redness and breakouts, plus strengthens the skin barrier. Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024 Its secret lies in its potent ingredient list: a blend of safflower seed, jojoba, and avocado oils that work together to soften and deeply hydrate strands perfect for a nourishing weekly treatment for curly and coily hair, and especially 4A-4C hair types. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2024 Read below to learn more about jojoba oil and its cosmetic benefits. Ashlyn Messier, Fox News, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for jojoba 

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish, of Uto-Aztecan origin; akin to O'odham hohowai jojoba, Yaqui hohoovam

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jojoba was in 1900

Dictionary Entries Near jojoba

Cite this Entry

“Jojoba.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jojoba. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on jojoba

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!