sconce

1 of 2

noun (1)

ˈskän(t)s 

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

Noun

The double bed was set against the wall and had much needed under-bed storage, while the cabin also featured a closet, bedside table and desk, ceiling fan, and faux candle wall sconces. —Jake Emen, Robb Report, 18 Dec. 2025

Like reading sconces, the body of this lamp type is usually adjustable. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 18 Dec. 2025

Choose among leather banquettes nestled into corners dimly lit by wall sconces, floor seating steps away from live jazz performers or high tables along glass cases filled with sketches of the celebrities who have graced the Chop House with their presence over the years. —Amanda Hancock, Louisville Courier Journal, 12 Dec. 2025

Installing new outdoor sconces or adding a few lanterns is a quick way to make your home feel more inviting, says Toronto interior designer Rebecca Hay. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2025

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

Rhymes for sconce

• bons
• hans
• launce
• nonce
• esperance
• nonchalance
• nonresponse
• renaissance
• naissance
• response

Kids Definition

sconce

noun

ˈskän(t)s

: a lamp or candlestick or group of candlesticks fastened to a wall