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

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

Take a leaf out of the '90s decorating stylebook by embracing layered lighting—think floor lamps, wall sconces, and table lamps—to create warmth, depth, and intimacy. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Jan. 2025

Rather than turning on every light in the house when hosting, lamps, sconces and picture frame lights are an optimal way to set the mood and accent a piece worth taking a second look at. —Gabriele Regalbuto, Fox News, 5 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