candle
|can/dle|
A2
/ˈkændl/
source of light
Etymology
Etymology Information
'candle' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'candela,' where 'candere' meant 'to shine.'
Historical Evolution
'candela' transformed into the Old English word 'candel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'candle.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a source of light,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a cylinder or block of wax or tallow with a central wick that is lit to produce light as it burns.
She lit a candle to illuminate the dark room.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a unit of luminous intensity, now replaced by the candela.
The candle was once used as a unit of measurement for light.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35