Cierge

/sɪˈɜːrdʒ/ noun

Definition

A large ornamental candle, especially one used in religious ceremonies.

Etymology

From French cierge, from Latin cereus meaning wax candle, ultimately from the Sanskrit word for wax (which came from bees).

Kelly Says

Medieval cierges were so valuable that they were status symbols—only wealthy families and churches could afford them, which is why they feature prominently in paintings of religious ceremonies from that era.

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