sconce

1 of 2

noun (1)

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
The brass sconces provide subtle, glamorous contrast and still fit into the color palette. Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Feb. 2025 The single long room is bereft of those clichés of Air India travel posters and hanging paisley fabrics in favor of bright colors, handsome wooden tables with their own lamps, and brass wheels serving as sconces. John Mariani, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 To create a warm and soft atmosphere, turn off the overhead lights and use natural light, lamps, and sconces instead. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Feb. 2025 The mirror is flanked by two 1960s ribbed Murano glass sconces, sourced from Etsy. Kristen Flanagan, Architectural Digest, 29 Jan. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sconce. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

sconce

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

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