chandelier

noun

chan·​de·​lier ˌshan-də-ˈlir How to pronounce chandelier (audio)
Synonyms of chandeliernext
: a branched often ornate lighting fixture suspended from a ceiling
chandeliered
ˌshan-də-ˈlird How to pronounce chandelier (audio)
adjective

Illustration of chandelier

Illustration of chandelier

Examples of chandelier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Nineteenth century Belgian crystal chandeliers and colorful glass lanterns adorn the sanctuary. — ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026 The venue’s interior is dark and opulent, with details in black, gold, and emerald green illuminated by mirrors and crystal chandeliers. — Amy Bradford, Architectural Digest, 5 Aug. 2026 Renovated in 2005 at a cost of $8 million, the intimate 17-room hotel displays the trappings of Europe’s grandest hotels, starting with an impressive foyer with a Murano glass chandelier shaped like Constantin Brancusi’s infinity column. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026 At the end of the street is the imposing Gringotts bank with its colossal marble columns and gleaming chandeliers hanging down from a domed ceiling. — Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for chandelier

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, going back to Old French, going back to Vulgar Latin *candēlārium, formed by substitution of the suffix -ārium -ary entry 1 from Latin candēlābrum candelabrum

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chandelier was in 1736

Rhymes for chandelier

See All Rhymes for chandelier

Browse Nearby Words

chandala
chandelier
chandelier tree
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chandelier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chandelier. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

chandelier

noun
chan·​de·​lier ˌshan-də-ˈli(ə)r How to pronounce chandelier (audio)
: a branched lighting fixture usually hanging from a ceiling
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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