candle

[ˈkændl]

candle Definition

a cylinder or block of wax or tallow with a central wick which is lit to produce light as it burns.

Using candle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "candle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She lit a candle to read her book.

  • Example

    The power went out, so we had to use candles for light.

  • Example

    He blew out the candles on his birthday cake.

  • Example

    The church was illuminated by hundreds of candles.

candle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for candle

Phrases with candle

  • to work or do other things from early in the morning until late at night and so get very little rest

    Example

    She's been burning the candle at both ends lately, working long hours and going out with friends every night.

  • hold a candle to someone/something

    to be nearly as good as someone or something else

    Example

    He's a good player, but he can't hold a candle to his brother, who is a professional athlete.

  • not worth the effort or cost involved

    Example

    I don't think it's worth the candle to try to fix this old car. We should just buy a new one.

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Summary: candle in Brief

A 'candle' [ˈkændl] is a cylinder or block of wax or tallow with a central wick that produces light when it burns. It is used for illumination, decoration, and religious purposes. Phrases like 'burn the candle at both ends' describe overworking oneself, while 'hold a candle to someone/something' means to be nearly as good as someone or something else. 'Not worth the candle' implies that something is not worth the effort or cost involved.

How do native speakers use this expression?