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

Complement practical lighting fixtures like sconces or ceiling lights with ambient lighting. —Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 2 May 2026

The runner is from Michael Trapp, and the sconce is by Charlotte Perriand. —Katherine Burns Olson, Architectural Digest, 1 May 2026

That sensibility shines where vintage European furnishings, like a 1960s sofa by Italian designer Luciano Frigerio, sit alongside antique Japanese screens and cabinetry; or when upcycled kimono fabrics hang alongside bespoke amber-glass wall sconces made in Murano, Italy. —Terry Ward, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2026

These smart sconces come out to just $5 each on sale and are loaded with fun features. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Apr. 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