sconce 1
/skons/ , n.
1. a bracket for candles or other lights, placed on a wall, mirror, picture frame, etc.
2. the hole or socket of a candlestick, for holding the candle.
[ 1350-1400; ME sconce, sconse ( esconce ) sconsa, aph. var. of absconsa, n. use of fem. ptp. of abscondere to conceal; see ABSCOND ]
sconce 2
/skons/ , n. , v. , sconced, sconcing .
n.
1. Fort. a small detached fort or defense work, as to defend a pass, bridge, etc.
2. a protective screen or shelter.
v.t.
3. Fort. to protect with a sconce.
4. Obs. to protect; shelter.
[ 1565-75; schans Schanze, orig. bundle of wood; cf. ensconse ]
sconce 3
/skons/ , v. , sconced, sconcing , n.
v.t.
1. (at English universities, esp. formerly) to fine (an undergraduate) for a breach of rules or etiquette.
n.
2. a fine so imposed.
[ 1610-20; orig. uncert. ]
sconce 4
/skons/ , n.
1. the head or skull.
2. sense or wit.
[ 1560-70; orig. uncert. ]