sconce

• Substantif à plusieurs sens, incluant un abri protecteur ou un écran, une petite fortification défensive, une torche ou une bougie allumée fixée dans un support, ou un support mural décoratif destiné à tenir des bougies ou d'autres sources de lumière.

A noun with multiple meanings, including a protective shelter or screen, a small defensive fortification, a flaming torch or candle secured in a holder, or a decorative wall bracket designed to hold candles or other light sources.

1. Protective shelterC1formal

   A structure or screen that provides protection from enemy fire or from the elements.

   Abri protecteur

   • The soldiers took cover behind a hastily built sconce.
   • A wooden sconce shielded the camp from the wind.
   • They erected a sconce to guard against the enemy's arrows.

   Synonymesbastionbulwarkfortificationredoubtstronghold

2. Small fortificationC1formalbritish

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

   Ouvrage fortifié

   • The army constructed a sconce to protect the river crossing.
   • A medieval sconce guarded the entrance to the castle.
   • The pass was defended by a small stone sconce.

   Synonymesbastionbulwarkearthworkfortredoubtstronghold

3. Light source holderB2formal

   A bracket or fixture attached to a wall that holds a candle or other light source.

   Applique murale pour éclairage

   • The hallway was lit by antique brass sconces.
   • She placed a scented candle in the wall sconce.
   • The sconce held a flickering torch, casting shadows on the wall.