Jessie Taylor
The word candle has a pretty short and straightforward history, but the language around candle holders has evolved in interesting ways. In Old English, a candle holder was known as a candeltreow or candle tree, while in Latin, it was called a candelabrum. Over time, the French-derived chandelier also became commonly used, causing a stir among traditionalists who disapproved of having two words for the same thing. However, through regular usage, a distinction emerged: candelabra sat on surfaces, while chandeliers hung from the ceiling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Single-word alternative | Candleholder |
| Synonyms | Candlestick, candelabra, chandelier |
| Etymology | Candle holder is derived from the Latin candelabrum, which originally meant a single candlestick. |
| Historical usage | In the 18th century, candle holders were often referred to as candelabra due to the influence of Latin among the well-educated and clergy. |
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What You'll Learn
Candle holder vs. candlestick
A "candlestick" is a device used to hold a candle in place. Candlesticks have a cup, a spike ("pricket"), or both, to keep the candle in place. They are sometimes called "candle holders".
Candlesticks are often used as decorative elements in homes or on special occasions, and are frequently used in religious rituals and for spiritual means. They can be made of metal, glass, ceramic, crystal, precious stones, copper, brass, iron, or wood.
Candle holders, or candlesticks, come in a variety of types, including:
- Votive holders: Modern-looking holders typically made of a small glass or ceramic disk with a candlestick attached.
- Pillar candle holders: Candles placed on a flat surface, typically a holder, as the candlestick holders. They are usually made of metal and sit on top of a round or square base that has hooks or legs to keep it steady.
- Dresser candle holders: Commonly found in French and Victorian-style furniture, these tend to work well with more formal or traditional decor. They are typically constructed from wrought iron, brass, or gold-plated metal.
- Ivy-style candle holders: A classic example of the Victorian era, these typically have a plant-like shape and come in copper or brass.
- Hollow candlesticks: Also known as candle holders with holes, these are typically made from cast iron and are popular in country kitchens or farmhouse dining rooms.
In summary, a "candlestick" is a type of "candle holder", and the terms can be used interchangeably. However, "candlestick" specifically refers to the device used to hold the candle, while "candle holder" can refer to a wider range of holders, including modern and traditional styles.
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Etymology of the word 'candle holder'
The word "candle" is derived from the Latin "candēla", which means candle. The Latin "candēlābrum" (or ""candelabrum" in its singular form in English) means a "candlestick" and is composed of "candela" and "-b(a) rum" (meaning holder). The word "candelabra" is the plural form of "candelabrum", although it is now commonly used as the singular form, with "candelabrums" sometimes being used as the plural.
The word "candle holder" can be used interchangeably with "candlestick", which is defined as an object that holds a candle. Other synonyms include "candelabrum", "chandelier", and "girandole".
Candelabra can be distinguished from chandeliers as the former is placed on a surface, while the latter is hung from the ceiling. The Romans used the term candelabra to describe a form of ornamental lighting, which may consist of a tall stand that supports a lamp.
There are various types of candle holders, including taper candle holders, pillar candle holders, tea light holders, and votive candle holders, each designed for different types and sizes of candles. Candle holders can be made from various materials, such as glass, metal, ceramic, or wood, and serve both functional and decorative purposes.
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Candelabra: a candle holder or a chandelier?
The words "candelabra" and "chandelier" both refer to types of candle holders and are derived from the Latin word "candelabrum". The main difference between the two is that a candelabra sits on a surface, while a chandelier hangs from the ceiling.
The term "candelabrum" originally referred to a single candlestick in Latin. The plural form, "candelabra", was later used to describe more elaborate candle holders that could hold two or more candles. Over time, the term "candelabra" came to be associated with the ornate, often brass, silver, or gold, multi-armed candle holders that we know today.
On the other hand, the word "chandelier" has its roots in Old French. By the 14th century, the term had evolved from "candelabrum" in Old French to "chandelier" and was adopted into the English language. Interestingly, the French-derived word "chandelier" coexisted with the Latin-derived "candelabra" in common English use during the 18th century. This led to some disapproval from language purists who frowned upon having two words with similar meanings without a clear differentiation.
Today, the main distinguishing feature between a candelabra and a chandelier is their placement, with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and candelabras resting on surfaces. Additionally, chandeliers have come to be associated with electric light bulbs, further setting them apart from candelabras.
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'Candle holder' in different languages
The term "candle holder" can be expressed in various languages, reflecting different cultural contexts and historical traditions. Here are some examples:
In German, a candle holder may be referred to as a "Julleuchter," which denotes a specific type of earthenware candle holder with origins in 16th-century Sweden. The term underwent a redesign in Nazi Germany, showcasing its evolution across borders and time.
In Japanese, the term "Shokudai" is used for candle holders. Interestingly, "Mujina-no-shokudai" translates to "badger's candle holder," where "mujina" is an old Japanese word for badger, sometimes used for the raccoon dog as well. Another term, "Tanuki-no-shokudai," refers to the shape and underground lifestyle of the raccoon dog.
In Spanish, the translation for "candle holder" is provided as "candle holder" as well, indicating a direct loanword adoption from English into the Spanish vocabulary. This showcases how languages evolve and adapt to incorporate new terms, especially in the modern era of increased global connectivity.
Additionally, in the context of memorial services in the Orthodox Church, candle holders play a symbolic role. During the final troparia, attendees may extinguish their candles or place them in candle holders by the memorial table. This ritualistic use of candle holders underscores their significance in religious traditions.
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Types of candle holders
Candle holders, also known as candlesticks, are functional and decorative accessories for candle enthusiasts. They provide support and stability for candles, protect surfaces from dripping wax, and enhance the ambiance of any space. The right candle holder can elevate the candle-burning experience, whether for aesthetic, practical, ceremonial, or religious purposes.
One of the most common types of candle holders is the taper candle holder, often used in restaurants and homes during dining. These holders are designed for tall, thin tapered candles, providing soft, ambient lighting to complement meals and conversations. They come in various styles, heights, and materials, ensuring a perfect fit for the candles without any wiggling, making them easy to move around.
Candelabras are another classic and elegant option, featuring multiple arms to hold candles. With origins dating back to the Middle Ages, candelabras add a touch of sophistication to any setting, ranging from small tabletop designs to grand floor-standing models. They are versatile and can be made from metal, glass, or acrylic, making them suitable for various occasions.
Pillar candle holders are designed for candles with wider diameters, typically ranging from 2 to 3 inches. These holders provide stability and support for larger candles, often serving as centrepieces or decorative accents. Tealight candle holders, on the other hand, are made for small, round tealight candles encased in metal or plastic containers. They come in various shapes and styles, such as glass cups, lanterns, or ceramic designs, adding a decorative touch to any room without breaking the bank.
Other types of candle holders include lanterns, perfect for outdoor use with flameless candles to provide safe and long-lasting light. Votive candle holders, typically made from glass, ceramics, or metal, are shorter and smaller, designed to optimise burn time by pooling wax inside the candle. Hurricane candle holders, named for their glass enclosures, protect candles from wind and provide an elegant, timeless appearance. Finally, for those seeking versatility, adjustable candle holders can accommodate different candle sizes by modifying the support width.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, “candleholder” is one word and is defined as a candlestick.
Some other names for candle holders include candelabra, candelabre, candeltreow, candelabrum, and chandelier.
A candelabra sits on a surface, whereas a chandelier hangs from the ceiling.
The word "candle" comes from Old English, while "candle holder" has roots in Latin, English, and French. The Latin word "candelabrum" means a single candlestick, and its plural form is "candelabra". In Old French, "candelabrum" became "chandelabre" by the 10th century and "chandelier" by the 14th century, which was later adopted into English.
Some examples of candle holders include the Julleuchter, an earthenware candle holder originating in 16th-century Sweden, and the girandole, an ornamental branched candlestick or light fixture.
