Candlestick vs. Candleholder — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 15, 2024
A candlestick is a slender, often tall holder designed specifically for one candle, typically used for support and decoration, whereas a candleholder is a broader term that encompasses any device used to hold a candle securely.
Difference Between Candlestick and Candleholder
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Candlesticks are traditionally made from materials like silver, brass, or wood, designed to hold a single candle, often taper candles. These holders are usually ornate and serve as decorative elements in home decor. On the other hand, candleholders can be made from a variety of materials including glass, metal, and ceramic and may hold various types of candles, from votives to pillars.
The design of a candlestick is generally tall and narrow, stabilizing the candle to prevent tipping and dripping wax. Whereas candleholders come in various shapes and sizes, designed to accommodate different candle forms and ensure stability and safety from melting wax.
Candlesticks are commonly associated with formal dining and religious ceremonies, providing a classic and elegant touch. Conversely, candleholders are more versatile in use, suitable for both casual and formal settings depending on their design.
In terms of functionality, candlesticks often feature a handle or a small rim at the base to catch dripping wax, promoting cleanliness and ease of handling. Candleholders, especially those for larger candles, might include features like a wide base or enclosed sides to protect surfaces from heat and wax spills.
Historically, candlesticks were a sign of wealth and status, often featured prominently in affluent homes and during significant events. Candleholders, while also used decoratively, have a more utilitarian origin, designed to provide light securely and efficiently in everyday settings.
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Comparison Chart
Design Purpose
To hold one candle, usually a taper
To hold any type of candle
Typical Materials
Silver, brass, wood
Glass, metal, ceramic
Common Use
Decorative, formal settings
Versatile, both casual and formal
Design Characteristics
Tall and slender, often ornate
Varies widely, functional
Historical Significance
Sign of wealth and status
More utilitarian, widespread use
Compare with Definitions
Candlestick
A holder designed for one candle, typically tall and slender.
The silver candlestick on the mantelpiece caught everyone's eye.
Candleholder
A device designed to securely hold a candle.
She placed a scented candle in the glass candleholder.
Candlestick
Often used in formal settings like dining tables.
She set out the candlesticks for the evening banquet.
Candleholder
Made from diverse materials like ceramic or glass.
The ceramic candleholder matched her kitchen perfectly.
Candlestick
Features a base to catch dripping wax.
The wax dripped onto the candlestick's base, not the tablecloth.
Candleholder
Can accommodate various types of candles.
The new candleholder was perfect for both votive and pillar candles.
Candlestick
Associated with elegance and decor.
The candlesticks added a touch of elegance to the room.
Candleholder
Used widely in both home and commercial settings.
The restaurant used candleholders to create a cozy atmosphere.
Candlestick
A candlestick is a device used to hold a candle in place. Candlesticks have a cup or a spike ("pricket") or both to keep the candle in place.
Candleholder
Often prioritizes functionality over style.
The sturdy candleholder prevented any wax from spilling.
Candlestick
A usually tall candleholder.
Candleholder
A holder for a candle or candles.
Candlestick
A holder with a socket or spike for a candle.
Candleholder
A device for holding one or more lit candles
Candlestick
(gymnastics) A gymnastics move in which the legs are pointed vertically upward.
Candleholder
(historical) A person who holds a candle to assist another person who is working in dim light.
Candlestick
(finance) A color-coded bar showing the open and closing prices of a stock on a candlestick chart.
Candleholder
One who renders another slight assistance, or humours them.
Candlestick
(of a parachute) To catch on fire, so that the chute resembles a tapered candle with a flame on top.
Candleholder
One who, or that which, holds a candle; also, one who assists another, but is otherwise not of importance.
Candlestick
(investing) To analyze stock behavior using Japanese candlestick charts.
Candlestick
To adorn with candlesticks.
Candlestick
To form a tall, thin, tapering shape similar to a candle.
Candlestick
An instrument or utensil for supporting a candle.
Candlestick
A holder with sockets for candles
Candlestick
Usually made from metal or wood, featuring ornate designs.
The antique candlestick was a cherished family heirloom.
Common Curiosities
Can candleholders hold more than one candle?
Yes, some candleholders are designed to hold multiple candles.
What types of candles are best for a candlestick?
Taper candles are most commonly used with candlesticks due to their slender shape.
What is a candleholder?
A candleholder is a device that holds one or more candles, varying widely in design and material.
Do candlesticks come in pairs?
Often, candlesticks are sold in pairs, especially for formal dining settings.
What is a candlestick?
A candlestick is a decorative holder specifically designed to hold one candle, usually a taper.
How do I clean a candlestick?
Care depends on the material, but generally involves polishing and removing wax residues.
What is the main purpose of a candleholder?
The primary purpose is to securely hold candles and protect surfaces from heat and wax.
Are candlesticks only used for decoration?
While primarily decorative, candlesticks are also functional, stabilizing candles to prevent tipping.
How do I choose the right candleholder?
Consider the size and type of candle you plan to use, as well as the style and function of the holder.
What is the difference in cost between candlesticks and candleholders?
Candlesticks, especially ornate or metal ones, tend to be more expensive than simpler candleholders.
Are candleholders safe to use?
Yes, when used properly, candleholders are designed to safely contain candles and their drippings.
Are candleholders decorative or utilitarian?
Candleholders can be both, depending on their design and material.
Can I use a votive candle in a candlestick?
Typically, votive candles are not used in candlesticks as they require a container to contain the melted wax.
Can candlesticks be used outdoors?
Yes, but they should be used in protected areas to avoid tipping in the wind.
What materials are used to make candleholders?
Materials range from glass and ceramic to metal and wood.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
