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Dictionary Language resources

sconce1

Syllabification: (sconce)

Pronunciation: /skäns/

Definition of sconce

noun

1a candle holder, or a holder of another light source, that is attached to a wall with an ornamental bracket.

2a flaming torch or candle secured in a holder that is attached to a wall.

Origin:

late Middle English (originally denoting a portable lantern with a screen to protect the flame): shortening of Old French esconse 'lantern', or from medieval Latin sconsa, from Latin absconsa (laterna) 'dark (lantern)', literally 'hidden (lantern)' (i.e., a lantern with a device for concealing the light), from abscondere 'to hide'