What is the common term for 'cerumen'?

The term 'cerumen' is commonly known as earwax, which is a substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. It serves several important functions, including lubricating the ear canal, trapping dirt and debris, and preventing bacterial and fungal growth. While the other options refer to different medical or physiological conditions—such as dead tissue, indigestion, and painful intercourse—they do not relate to cerumen at all. Thus, earwax is the appropriate and widely accepted term that accurately describes cerumen, making it the correct choice in this context.