sconce
sconce Lexical Profile
sconce Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A light fixture firmly attached to a wall, historically used to hold candles or torches and now often wired for electricity.
"The dimly lit hallway was lined with brass sconces holding flickering bulbs."
A small fort or defensive earthwork, typically built to defend a pass, ford, or castle gate.
"The rebel army hastily erected a sconce to guard the bridge against advancing cavalry."
The head or skull of a person.
"A falling apple struck him squarely on the sconce, leaving a sizable lump."
• verb
British To fine a student at certain universities for a breach of dining hall etiquette, traditionally by making them drink a large quantity of ale.
"The college senior was sconced for accidentally referring to the college master by his first name during formal hall."
To fortify or protect a military position by building a small defensive redoubt.
"The commander ordered his troops to sconce the perimeter before nightfall."
• Rhymes for sconce
Word Origin & Etymology
Late Middle English: from Old French 'esconce' (lantern, hiding place), originating from Latin 'absconsa' (hidden), the feminine past participle of 'abscondere' (to hide).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.