candlepin

noun

can·​dle·​pin ˈkan-dᵊl-ˌpin How to pronounce candlepin (audio)
1
: a slender bowling pin tapering toward top and bottom
2
candlepins plural in form but singular in construction : a bowling game using candlepins and a smaller ball than that used in tenpins

Examples of candlepin 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.
Come for the candlepin bowling, stay for some of the wildest death scenes ever put to paper. — David Canfield, EW.com, 5 Dec. 2019 The recreation center has vintage candlepin bowling played with balls small enough for little hands to grip. — Elaine Glusac, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2019 While candlepin bowling and ice fishing are New England classics, Seattle is known as the nation's glass art capital and as the birthplace of grunge. — Kelsie Hoffman, CBS News, 6 Feb. 2026 On Wednesday, Tunney argued that the extension was necessary to the survival of the old-school candlepin bowling alley, which has been in his family for three decades. — Diti Kohli, BostonGlobe.com, 5 Jan. 2023 For something more active, head down the street to Sacco’s Bowl Haven for New England-style candlepin bowling, local beers, and crispy flatbreads. — Shaan Merchant, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 May 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of candlepin was in 1889

Rhymes for candlepin

See All Rhymes for candlepin

Browse Nearby Words

candlenut oil
candlepin
candle plant
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Candlepin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/candlepin. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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