sconce

1 of 2

noun (1)

ˈskän(t)s How to pronounce sconce (audio)
Synonyms of sconcenext
1
: a bracket candlestick or group of candlesticks
also : an electric light fixture patterned on a candle sconce
2
: head, skull

sconce

2 of 2

noun (2)

: a detached defensive work

Examples of sconce 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.
Noun
On the wall, Volume by Guy de Rougemont (1972) and vintage 1970s aluminum sconces. —Nicolas Milon, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2024 Feldman reports that the over-the-top drama of big bulbs framing a mirror has made way in modern design for pleasant and timeless sconces that won’t fade out of fashion so quickly. —Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 7 Oct. 2024 Pair this green paint color with textured details such as wicker storage baskets or a jute rug, and add a touch of shine with brass accents in the form of wall sconces, picture frames, or hardware. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Oct. 2024 London’s Porta Romana provided the modern wall sconces and chandeliers dotting the space, which illuminate details such as the kitchen’s marble-top island and nearby turquoise green carpeting. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sconce 

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English, from Anglo-French sconce, *esconse screened candle or lantern, from escunser to hide, obscure, from Old French escons, past participle of escondre to hide, from Vulgar Latin *excondere, alteration of Latin abscondere — more at abscond

Noun (2)

Dutch schans, from German Schanze

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1571, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sconce was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sconce

Scombroidei

sconce

sconcheon

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Sconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sconce. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

sconce

noun
ˈskän(t)s
: a lamp or candlestick or group of candlesticks fastened to a wall

More from Merriam-Webster on sconce

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for sconce

Nglish: Translation of sconce for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sconce

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