What Is Another Word For Large Candle Holder?

A large candle holder is a decorative holder designed to hold one or more candles. These holders come in many different shapes and sizes and go by various names, such as candelabra, chandelier, menorah, or candelabrum. Knowing alternative names for large candle holders can be useful when searching for a specific style of decorative candle holder.

People may need synonyms for “large candle holder” when shopping for a specific style, discussing candle holders with others, writing descriptions, or doing research. Using a variety of terms helps expand searches and ensures other people understand exactly the type of large candle holder being referenced.

Candelabra

Candelabra is a common alternate word for a large candle holder. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, candelabra refers to a large branched candlestick or lamp stand usually designed to hold multiple candles or lamps. So, a candelabra is essentially a decorative, often ornate, holder used for multiple candles.

Candelabras come in varied shapes, sizes and designs, but generally feature multiple arms, branches or stems radiating out from a central base to hold the candles. They are commonly used as centerpieces or decorative lighting fixtures in homes, churches and events. The most basic design is a central vertical stem with two or three curving branches on each side to hold taper candles. More elaborate designs feature multiple tiered branches fanning out in symmetrical shapes.

So in summary, candelabra refers to a large, branched candle holder designed to illuminate spaces in an aesthetic, decorative manner with multiple candles. It serves as an alternate term for large candle holders.

Chandelier

A chandelier is a decorative lighting fixture that hangs from the ceiling and holds multiple light sources. While chandeliers today often use electric bulbs, the traditional chandelier used candles to provide illumination. Like a candelabra, a chandelier with candles acts as a large decorative candle holder.

Chandeliers with candles provide a warm, flickering ambiance that electric lighting often cannot replicate. The multiple arms, branches, or tiers of a chandelier allow it to hold many candles at once. Traditionally, chandeliers used actual wax candles, but nowadays flameless battery-operated candles are also an option to minimize fire risk. When lit, all the small flames combine to create a striking visual statement.

Some chandeliers are designed specifically for candles, with holders to keep each candle secure. Chandeliers that once used bulbs can also be retrofitted for candles in many cases. When outfitted with candles, a chandelier becomes more than just a light fixture – it transforms into an elegant and eye-catching decorative candle holder to add ambiance to a space. The chandelier reflects and amplifies the candlelight to create a warm glow, making it an ideal alternative to a standard large candle holder.

Menorah

A menorah is a type of large candle holder used in Jewish religious rituals. The word “menorah” comes from the Hebrew word for “lamp.” A menorah holds seven candles and has branches, with three branches on each side and one branch in the middle.

The seven-branched menorah originally found in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem is described in the Torah in Exodus 25:31-40. This Temple menorah had seven branches made of pure gold, with decorative cups, knobs, and flowers (Exodus 25:31-40). It was used in rituals conducted by priests in the Temple.

Today, menorahs are used during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. The Hanukkah menorah holds nine candles instead of seven. Eight of the candles represent each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, and the ninth candle (called the shamash) is used to light the others. Hanukkah menorahs can be made from different materials like silver, glass, wood, or ceramics.

So in summary, a menorah is a type of large seven or nine-branched candelabrum used in Jewish rituals and holidays. The original seven-branched golden menorah was used in ancient Temple ceremonies, while nine-branched menorahs are commonly used in Jewish homes today during Hanukkah.

Candelabrum

Candelabrum is a synonym that can refer to a large candle holder or candelabra. It typically refers to a heavy branched candlestick with multiple holders for candles, often seen in ceremonial or religious settings. The term candelabrum comes from Latin words meaning “candle” and “tree.” While candelabra and candelabrum are essentially interchangeable in meaning, candelabra is a more familiar term to most modern English speakers. wordcmp.com

Altar Candles

Altar candles serve as large candle holders for use in religious and spiritual practices. Typically made of wax, altar candles symbolize light and purity. They are often placed on altars or tables during religious ceremonies or rituals. Altar candles can range in size from small votives to large pillar candles over 3 feet tall. The candles are usually arranged in groups of 2, 4, 6 or 7 on special candle stands.

In Catholic tradition, altar candles represent Jesus Christ as the light of the world. The candles are lit during Mass to signify Christ’s presence on the altar. Many churches will have 6 altar candles placed around the altar. In Jewish tradition, the 7-branched menorah candle holder is used in Hanukkah celebrations. In Wiccan rituals, candles are used to represent the elements of nature.

Altar candles create an ambiance of reverence and mysticism during sacred rituals. Their flickering flames provide a focal point for prayer, contemplation or magical workings. For these reasons, altar candles in grand candelabras or stands act as large ceremonial candle holders across many faiths.

History

The history of large candle holders dates back thousands of years. In ancient times, candles were used not only for illumination but also for religious and spiritual rituals. Elaborate candle holders were crafted to hold multiple candles for ceremonies and events.

One of the earliest examples is the seven-branched menorah used in Judaism, first described in the Old Testament. The menorah held oil lamps instead of candles, but established the tradition of using a branched holder for multiple flames.1

In Christian churches during the Middle Ages, ornate candle holders called candelabra were placed on altars. Some featured tall stems with branches to hold multiple long candles. Candelabra symbolized enlightenment and were important for religious services before electric lighting.2

The wealthy also used elaborate candle holders to light their homes before electricity. Chandeliers with multiple candle arms became a show of opulence and status. Candle holders evolved from practical lighting to decorative pieces of art and design over history.

Uses

Beyond decoration, there are many creative ways to utilize large candle holders:

Outdoor lighting – Large candle holders like metal lanterns can provide beautiful ambiance in an outdoor space at night.

Centerpieces – A large candle holder placed in the middle of a table makes for an elegant centerpiece. Fill it with flowers, seashells, or other decorations to complement the candles.

Craft storage – Repurpose a large glass or metal candle holder as storage for art supplies, tools, utensils, and more. The vessels keep items neatly organized and make them easily accessible.

Vases – Without the candle, a clean large candle holder can hold fresh or faux floral arrangements. The height showcases the flowers beautifully.

Terrariums – Convert a glass candle holder into a mini garden! Layer sand, charcoal, soil and small plants inside to create a unique living terrarium.

Modern Designs

Modern candle holders come in a variety of unique and creative designs. Some popular modern styles include:

The Interconnect Candle Holder is a bold and geometric style with exaggerated proportions. It features a series of interlocking metal frames that can hold multiple candles (https://audocph.com/collections/candles-candle-holders).

Turkish ceramic candle holders offer beautiful and ornate designs often with floral or geometric patterns. They come in candleholder models like hurricane vases, lanterns, wall sconces, and tabletop holders (https://www.myros.com/turkish-ceramic/turkish-ceramic-candle-holder).

Metal wire candle holders feature intricate wire sculpting that surrounds candles in modern and artistic shapes. These are popular for centerpieces and mantle displays.

Concrete candle holders are an industrial-chic option, with concrete molded into abstract shapes and forms. These bring an urban, contemporary look.

Mosaic candle holders use small colorful tiles or glass fragments in mosaic designs. This style combines modern and antique aesthetics.

Minimalist candle holders focus on simple and unembellished forms, like smooth metal or glass. These allow the candle itself to be the focus.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several terms used to refer to large decorative candle holders, such as candelabrum, candelabra, chandelier, menorah, and altar candles (source). Each term has its own unique history and design features, but they all serve a similar function of holding multiple candles for decorative lighting. Knowing these various vocabulary words allows us to be more precise in describing these objects and demonstrates a mastery of language that enriches communication. An expanded vocabulary has many benefits, including improved reading comprehension, enhanced writing abilities, and clearer self-expression (source). Whether for academic, professional, or personal goals, developing a robust vocabulary is a worthwhile endeavor that deepens thought and unlocks new possibilities.