candle
/ˈkæn.dəl/
Frequency: 3.88 in modern English
Meaning
noun
A light source consisting of a wick embedded in a solid, flammable substance such as wax, tallow, or paraffin.
noun
The protruding, removable portion of a filter, particularly a water filter.
noun
A fast-growing, light-colored, upward-growing shoot on a pine tree in the spring. As growth slows in summer, the shoot darkens and is no longer conspicuous.
noun
Indicates how high or low church something is by height on the candle.
verb
To observe the growth of an embryo inside (an egg), using a bright light source.
Transitive verb
verb
To dry (greenware) prior to the firing cycle, setting the kiln at 200° Celsius until all water is removed from the greenware.
Transitive verb
verb
To check (an item, such as an envelope) by holding it between a light source and the eye.
Transitive verb
Example Sentences
- "light a candle"
- "blow out the candles on the birthday cake"
- "snuff out the candle"
- "That vicar used to be an evangelical, but she's crept up the candle in recent years."
- "That’s why self-consciously Anglo-catholic churches which are a mile high up the paschal candle can do reasonably well in the current climate."
- "For those towards the top of the candle, receiving holy communion is not the same as a celebration of the mass, and mailing the sacred host demonstrates a serious lack of reverence for the sacrament."
Etymology
Origin
Word Breakdown
- Root: candel, candēla, candeō
Usage
Subject
Wiktionary places this term in Law.