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sconce Synonyms

Another word for sconce

Choosing another word for sconce depends on context, so the 33 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

A light fixture firmly attached to a wall, historically used to hold candles or torches and now often wired for electricity.

Usage Example

"The dimly lit hallway was lined with brass sconces holding flickering bulbs."

Strong
bracket
Weak
lantern
candlestick

• noun (Context 2)

A small fort or defensive earthwork, typically built to defend a pass, ford, or castle gate.

Usage Example

"The rebel army hastily erected a redoubt to guard the bridge against advancing cavalry."

Strongest
redoubt
Strong
blockhouse
bulwark
earthwork
fortification
bastion
rampart
outwork
breastwork
fort

• noun (Context 3)

The head or skull of a person.

Usage Example

"A falling apple struck him squarely on the head, leaving a sizable lump."

Strongest
head
skull
pate
Strong
noggin
noddle
crown
cranium
dome
bean
costard

• verb (Context 4)

To fine a student at certain universities for a breach of dining hall etiquette, traditionally by making them drink a large quantity of ale.

Usage Example

"The college senior was sconced for accidentally referring to the college master by his first name during formal hall."

Strong
fine
penalize
mulct
amerce

• verb (Context 5)

To fortify or protect a military position by building a small defensive redoubt.

Usage Example

"The commander ordered his troops to fortify the perimeter before nightfall."

Strongest
fortify
Strong
entrench
barricade
bulwark
rampart
defend
Weak
protect
garrison

Opposites of sconce

The opposite of sconce shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

dismantle
expose
reward
See all opposites of sconce

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Sconce. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/sconce
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