sconce

Definition

A fixture for a light, which holds it and provides a screen against wind or against a naked flame or lightbulb.

Etymology

From Middle English sconce, sconse (“candlestick or lantern (with screen)”), from Old French esconse (“lantern”), from Latin absconsus (“hidden”), perfect passive participle of abscondō (“hide”). Cognate with abscond.

Example Sentences

• "[…]tapers put into lanterns or sconces of several-coloured, oiled paper, that the wind might not annoy them."
• "Golden sconces hang not on the walls."
• "Taking the candle […] she stood with the little flat brass sconce in her hand."

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