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.
Sunflower and jojoba seed oils do much of the makeup-melting work while replenishing skin with emollient moisture, and a supporting cast of ceramides, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, cica, and fig helps hydrate, soothe, and support the moisture barrier. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026 The formula is made with jojoba waxes to keep fragile lashes conditioned and soft. — Micaela English, Glamour, 14 Aug. 2026 As its name suggests, the High Gloss Lip Oil is an ultra-glossy lip product enhanced with nourishing shea oils and jojoba to condition lips and promote a supple-looking finish. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 28 July 2026 Each blended its tallow with additional ingredients — jojoba oil being the most significant. — Jenna Belhumeur, Los Angeles Times, 27 July 2026 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

Rhymes for jojoba

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Browse Nearby Words

joisting
jojoba
jo-jotte
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Cite this Entry

“Jojoba.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jojoba. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on jojoba

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jojoba

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