The paper was invented in 1872 by Thomas Edison when he was 25 years old. It is commonly used in cooking (for non-stick properties) and wrapping food for storage (keeps water out or in). It is also used in arts and crafts.
The paper is also used in the manufacture of some less expensive models of the musical instrument the kazoo. One can make a simple kazoo by combining a small piece of wax paper and a comb, then blowing over it.
Another use of wax paper is to apply wax to objects. By rubbing the wax paper on an object the wax will rub off the paper and onto the object. This is useful for adding a slight polish or to reduce friction.