Definition

1. Noun (plural):
   • A tool for trimming candle wicks: "Snuffers" refers to a specific implement, typically a pair of small scissor-like tools, used to trim or extinguish the burnt end (the "snuff") of a candle wick.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The butler used the silver snuffers to trim the candle, preventing it from smoking.
  • A pair of antique snuffers was displayed in the historical museum's collection.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: Snuffers were an essential household item before the widespread use of electric lighting, used to maintain candlelight and prevent excessive soot.
  • In the 18th century, snuffers were often made of brass or silver and kept on a tray called a "snuffer tray".

Variants and Related Words

• Snuffer (singular noun): Can refer to a single device, often a cone-shaped implement, used to extinguish a candle by smothering the flame.

  • She used a bell snuffer to put out the candles safely.

• Snuff (verb/noun): As a verb, it means to extinguish a candle; as a noun, it can refer to the charred part of the wick.

  • He snuffed the candle before retiring for the night.

Synonyms

• Candle trimmer: A more modern descriptive term for a similar tool.
• Wick trimmer: Specifically emphasizes the trimming function.

Notes

• The term is almost always used in the plural form ("snuffers") when referring to the scissor-like tool, often preceded by "a pair of".
• Its usage is now largely historical or related to antique collecting and period reenactments, as modern candles often self-trim or are used decoratively.

Noun

1. scissors for cropping and holding the snuff of a candlewick