Definition of "candle" in English

Noun

1. A light source consisting of a wick embedded in a solid, flammable substance such as wax, tallow, or paraffin.

   • light a candle
   • blow out the candles on the birthday cake
   • snuff out the candle

2. The protruding, removable portion of a filter, particularly a water filter.

3. A unit of luminous intensity, now replaced by the SI unit candela.

4. A fast-growing, light-colored, upward-growing shoot on a pine tree in the spring. As growth slows in summer, the shoot darkens and is no longer conspicuous.

5. Indicates how high or low church something is by height on the candle.

   • That vicar used to be an evangelical, but she's crept up the candle in recent years.

Verb

1. To observe the growth of an embryo inside (an egg), using a bright light source.

2. To dry (greenware) prior to the firing cycle, setting the kiln at 200° Celsius until all water is removed from the greenware.

3. To check (an item, such as an envelope) by holding it between a light source and the eye.