girandole
/'dʤirəndoul/
Definition
Noun: 1. An ornate branched candle holder, often incorporating a mirror: A girandole is a decorative, multi-armed candlestick or candelabrum, frequently designed in an elaborate style. Historically, it often featured a mirror or reflective backing to enhance the light from the candles.
Examples of Usage
- The antique girandole on the mantelpiece reflected the candlelight beautifully.
- The ballroom was illuminated by several crystal girandoles hanging from the ceiling.
- She inherited a pair of 18th-century girandoles made of gilded bronze.
Advanced Usage
- Historical/Decorative Arts Context: The term is most precisely used to describe a specific style of lighting fixture popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, characterized by its showy, often asymmetrical design with scrolling arms.
- Jewelry Context: By extension, "girandole" can also refer to a style of earring with a central pendant surrounded by smaller dangling ornaments, resembling the branched form of the candle holder.
Variants and Related Words
- Girandola (n): An Italian term, often referring to a revolving firework or fountain, which is the origin of the English word "girandole."
- Candelabrum (n): A large, branched candlestick; a more general term that includes girandoles.
- Sconce (n): A wall-mounted light fixture, which a girandole may sometimes be designed as.
Synonyms
- Candelabrum
- Candleholder
- Chandelier (when suspended)
Related Idioms or Phrases
- There are no common idioms directly using the word "girandole." Its usage is specific to descriptions of decorative objects.
Noun
-
an ornate candle holder; often with a mirror
