burn the candle at both ends

phrase

: to use one's resources or energies to excess

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of burn the candle at both ends was in 1736

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burnt carmine

burn the candle at both ends

burn the midnight oil

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Style

“Burn the candle at both ends.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn%20the%20candle%20at%20both%20ends. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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burn the candle at both ends

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