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.
Crimson chandelier shades hang overhead. — Melinda Sheckells, HollywoodReporter, 25 June 2026 Think ostrich feather chandeliers, dining nooks flanked with red velvet curtains, and stripes everywhere. — Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 30 June 2026 The general store — full of apparel, gifts, souvenirs and road-trip essentials — features a glittery chandelier made of guitars. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 With deep connections to the bride, the latter duo are expected to perform on the stage constructed on the MSG floor amidst foliage and chandeliers. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 3 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 7 Jul. 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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