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

The light accentuates the room’s decor, which includes sconces from Jennings’ grandparents’ home in Shelbyville, a dresser from his aunt and uncle — with real turkey feathers hanging from above — and unique bedding from India. —Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 20 June 2024

Incorporate the idea in your own home through chandeliers, floor lamps, and wall sconces. 03 of 13 From Black to White This year, color palettes are shifting from dark, moody grays and blues to light and bright neutrals. —Claire Hoppe, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 May 2024

It is lighted by a beautiful chandelier and wall sconces, while gleaming hardwood floors add warmth. —James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 10 Mar. 2024

Set your plants or floral arrangements near this sconce to really capture the essence of bringing the outdoors inside. —Wendy Vazquez, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 June 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