sconce

1 of 2

noun (1)

ˈskän(t)s 

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

Noun

Antique chandeliers and sconces, only a few of which seemed to function, wilted from the walls and ceilings like dying flowers. —Youmna Melhem Chamieh, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025

In the exhibition, the tubular pendants and sconces are arranged in various configurations and theatrical settings; besides brass, bronze, and silver, there are leather and suede options. —Morgan Meier, Curbed, 27 Dec. 2024

Picture lights, sconces, and lamps all throughout can accommodate various lighting permutations. —Michael Boodro, Architectural Digest, 16 Dec. 2024

Planters, sconces, bathroom and kitchen hardware (including sinks), jewelry, goblets, and servingware are all making an appearance with a special copper touch. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 16 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

sconce

noun

ˈskän(t)s

: a lamp or candlestick or group of candlesticks fastened to a wall