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Candle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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candle

[หˆkรฆndl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

light source

A candle is a stick of wax with a string in the middle that burns to provide light.

Synonyms

candelabrum, lantern, torch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
candle

Used for small to medium light needs, often in a home setting or romantic environment.

  • She lit a candle to create a cozy atmosphere.
  • Candles were placed on the table for the dinner.
torch

Used for powerful, usually handheld lighting, often for outdoor activities or emergency situations.

  • She grabbed a torch to explore the cave.
  • The power went out, so they used a torch to find their way.
lantern

Used for portable lighting, often outdoors or in situations where light needs to be moved around.

  • He carried a lantern to light the way through the dark woods.
  • They hung lanterns in the garden for the evening party.
candelabrum

Typically used in formal or ceremonial settings, often as a decorative piece holding multiple candles.

  • The grand dining hall had an elegant candelabrum as its centerpiece.
  • They lit the candelabra during the religious ceremony.

Examples of usage

  • She lit a candle during the power outage.
  • The candle flickered in the dark room.
Context #2 | Noun

decorative item

A candle can also refer to a decorative item made of wax that is often scented and used for ambiance or relaxation.

Synonyms

candlestick, pillar candle, votive candle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
candle

General term for a wax stick with a wick used for light.

  • She lit a candle to read her book
  • The room was filled with the relaxing scent of lavender candles
candlestick

Refers to the holder for a candle, often decorative. Used in formal or ritual settings.

  • The elegant candlestick sat in the center of the dining table
  • They placed the candlesticks on the altar during the ceremony
pillar candle

A large, thick candle that stands on its own without needing a holder. Common for home decoration or making a statement.

  • She decorated the fireplace with pillar candles
  • The pillar candle burned steadily through the night
votive candle

Small, usually enclosed in a glass holder, often used in religious or ritual contexts.

  • They lit votive candles at the shrine
  • The votive candle flickered continuously in the dark

Examples of usage

  • She placed scented candles around the bathtub for a relaxing bath.
  • The candle on the dining table added a warm glow to the room.
Context #3 | Verb

lighting a candle

To candle means to ignite a candle to produce light or create a certain atmosphere.

Synonyms

ignite, light, spark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
candle

Used when referring to a wax cylinder containing a wick that produces light and often fragrance when lit. Common in settings without electricity or as decorative elements in homes, restaurants, and events.

  • She lit a candle to create a cozy atmosphere
  • The power went out, so we used candles to get some light
ignite

Used when talking about starting a fire or causing something to begin burning. Can be used metaphorically to mean starting an emotion or action.

  • The campfire ignited quickly with dry branches
  • His speech ignited a passion in the crowd
light

Used in a general sense to refer to the act of making something illuminate. Also covers scenarios like turning on lamps or lighting up spaces, as well as metaphorically making something clearer or more understandable.

  • She lit the room by turning on the lamp
  • Understanding this concept lit up my mind
spark

Used to describe a small flash of light caused by electricity or friction. Frequently used metaphorically to describe initiating a new idea, emotion, or action quickly.

  • A spark flew from the firework
  • Their argument was sparked by a simple misunderstanding

Examples of usage

  • She carefully candled each candle on the birthday cake.
  • He candled the room to create a romantic ambiance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Candles have been used for thousands of years, with evidence of their existence in ancient Egypt around 3000 BC.
  • The word 'candle' comes from the Latin 'candela', which means 'light' and reflects its purpose of providing illumination.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, candles are lit during celebrations like birthdays to symbolize wishes being made.
  • Candles are also significant in religious traditions, often used in rituals and ceremonies to represent divine light.

Science

  • A burning candle produces light due to a process called combustion, where the wax vaporizes and combines with oxygen.
  • The color of the flame can indicate temperature; a blue flame is hotter than a yellow one due to more complete combustion.

Art

  • Artists use candlelight to create atmosphere in paintings, invoking feelings of warmth, nostalgia, or mystery.
  • Candle making has evolved into a popular craft, where individuals create unique designs and scents for personal use or gifts.

Psychology

  • Soft candlelight is often used in therapy settings, as it can create a calming and relaxing environment.
  • The act of lighting a candle can symbolize hope or intention, often used in mindfulness practices to focus the mind.

Origin of 'candle'

The word 'candle' originated from the Latin word 'candela', meaning 'a light'. Candles have been used for centuries as a source of light before the invention of electricity. They hold significance in various cultures and traditions, symbolizing hope, remembrance, and celebration.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,338 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.