propolis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowScientific, Technical, Specialised, Beekeeping
Quick answer
What does “propolis” mean?
A resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds, used to seal and sterilise their hives.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds, used to seal and sterilise their hives.
The substance is also used by humans for its antiseptic, antibacterial, and healing properties in medicine, cosmetics, and as a dietary supplement.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both variants use the same term.
Connotations
Technical/specialised term with positive connotations of natural health and healing.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, confined to apiculture, natural health, and pharmacology contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “propolis” in a Sentence
The bees use propolis to seal the hive.The product contains propolis.Propolis is valued for its properties.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “propolis” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The propolis tincture has a strong aroma.
- It's a propolis-based cream.
American English
- The propolis ointment soothed the skin.
- It has propolis-infused properties.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Found in marketing for natural health products and supplements.
Academic
Used in biological, pharmacological, and apicultural research papers.
Everyday
Rare. Most likely heard in discussions about natural remedies or beekeeping.
Technical
Standard term in beekeeping manuals, pharmacology, and cosmetics formulation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “propolis”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “propolis”
- Pronouncing it as 'pro-POLE-is' (correct: stress on first syllable).
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a propolis' – it's uncountable).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, propolis is a resinous 'glue' used for construction and protection, while honey is a food source made from nectar.
Yes, but typically in processed forms like extracts, tinctures, or capsules. Raw propolis is very hard and resinous.
Because it is made from tree resins and beeswax, which are naturally adhesive substances, especially when warm.
No, it is an uncountable (mass) noun. You refer to 'some propolis' or 'a piece of propolis', not 'a propolis'.
A resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds, used to seal and sterilise their hives.
Propolis is usually scientific, technical, specialised, beekeeping in register.
Propolis: in British English it is pronounced /ˈprɒpəlɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈprɑːpəlɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
PROtect the hive with POLIS (like a police force for bees). Propolis POLISes the hive and protects it.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROPOLIS IS A DEFENSIVE BARRIER / PROPOLIS IS A NATURAL ANTIBIOTIC.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of propolis in a beehive?