sconce

1 of 2

noun (1)

Synonyms of sconce
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
Palatial splendor merges with chalet coziness, particularly in the raclette and charcuterie-heavy Le Coin Savoyard restaurant (one of three in the hotel and four off-site) and in the salons, where sofas and traditional rugs are illuminated by chandeliers and dim sconces. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026 Layer recessed lights, sconces, and floor lamps to brighten low-light areas. Jody Garlock, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2026 Located in the lobby of the Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami, ViceVersa’s design pays homage to Miami’s Art Deco past with its emerald wall, gold-leaf sconces, and geometric art prints. Mariette Williams, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 May 2026 Only a simple wooden sconce and unique door knocker are needed to decorate this space. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 26 May 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sconce. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

sconce

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

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