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.
The formula is so creamy and hydrating (it’s made with jojoba oil and hyaluronic acid), and the color payoff lasts all day long. — Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 In terms of ingredients, experts recommend oils that won’t weigh your hair down, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil. — Ariel Wodarcyk, Glamour, 29 May 2026 Meanwhile bamboo water, jojoba esters, and two forms of hyaluronic acid help to impart hydration and calm skin. — Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 31 May 2026 The homemade moisturizer recipe combines beef tallow and beeswax melted together over a pot of boiling water, then mixed with squalene and jojoba oil. — Ryan Brennan may 5, Kansas City Star, 5 May 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 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on jojoba

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jojoba

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