Chandelier
/ˌʃændəˈlɪr/noun
A decorative hanging light fixture with branches for multiple candles or bulbs.
Did you know?The word comes from Old French for a candle-holder, and its deeper root traces back to Latin candēla, tying modern luxury lighting to the ancient language of fire and ritual light.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
candēla
“a candle or taper, something that gives light”
Old French
Old French
chandelier
“a candlestick or candle-holder”
Middle English
English
chandeler / chandelier
“a holder for candles; a candlestick”
18th Century
English
chandelier
“an elaborate hanging frame for candles”
Modern English
English
chandelier
“a decorative hanging light fixture”
Explore more surprising origins