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

Take cues from this beautiful space and go with simple shaker-style cabinets and antique brass hardware, a combination of pendant lights and wall sconces, some shiplap on the walls, and a butcher-block island. —Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 21 Jan. 2026

Think wall sconces, backlit mirrors, and indirect illumination. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Jan. 2026

Aside from the duo’s adorable banter, we were captivated by the cozy atmosphere both actors created thanks to some gold wall sconces in their respective homes. —Esme Benjamin, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026

Velvet headboards, lightbulb sconces, and record players add vintage appeal, and moody portraits by Atlanta College of Art graduate Sharon Shapiro were inspired by the Clermont Lounge dancers. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

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