chandelier

noun

chan·​de·​lier ˌshan-də-ˈlir 

: a branched often ornate lighting fixture suspended from a ceiling

chandeliered

ˌshan-də-ˈlird 

adjective

Illustration of chandelier

Examples of chandelier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Think extravagant toile and damask wallpaper, limestone and French white oak flooring, crystal chandeliers and heavy curtains tied back with impressive tassels. —Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 8 Apr. 2026

Rachel Cannon, the founder of Rachel Cannon Limited in Baton Rouge, hung a beaded chandelier in this laundry room, and the fixture adds plenty of whimsy, particularly when paired with vibrant wallpaper. —Lindsey Mather, Architectural Digest, 7 Apr. 2026

Modern crystal chandeliers hung overhead, original artworks colored the walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows framed the neon lights of the towers lining Marina Bay. —Chris Schalkx, Travel + Leisure, 7 Apr. 2026

No longer dangling high above audience members, one of the most famous chandeliers in theater history now shimmers just inches from audience members. —Abraham Swee, USA Today, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, going back to Old French, going back to Vulgar Latin *candēlārium, formed by substitution of the suffix -ārium -ary entry 1 from Latin candēlābrum candelabrum

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chandelier

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear
• engineer

Kids Definition

chandelier

noun

chan·​de·​lier ˌshan-də-ˈli(ə)r 

: a branched lighting fixture usually hanging from a ceiling