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 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 The Antoinette Poisson wallpaper and The Shade Store flannel curtains add texture, while the Maitland Smith lamp and Felix Lighting sconce light up the space. Troy J. McMullen, Architectural Digest, 17 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

Dictionary Entries Near sconce

Cite this Entry

“Sconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sconce. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

sconce

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

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