Tapel
/ˈteɪpəl/noun
An obsolete English word for a taper or small candle.
Did you know?The related word “taper” ultimately connects candle-making with papyrus, whose fibrous material was historically used for wicks and other combustible purposes.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
πάπυρος (pápyros)
“Papyrus, the reed plant whose fibers were used for writing and practical materials”
Classical Latin
Latin
papyrus
“Papyrus; the plant and material derived from it”
Old English
Old English
tapor / tæper
“A candle or torch, likely associated with papyrus or similar wick material”
Middle English
Middle English
tapel
“A taper or small candle”
14th–15th Century
English
taper
“A slender candle, especially one used for lighting”
Modern English
English
tapel
“An obsolete or dialectal form meaning “taper””
Explore more surprising origins