candlewood

[ kan-dl-wood ]

noun

1. any resinous wood used for torches or as a substitute for candles.
2. any of various trees or shrubs yielding such wood.

candlewood

/ ˈkændəlˌwʊd /

noun

1. the resinous wood of any of several trees, used for torches and candle substitutes
2. any tree or shrub, such as ocotillo, that produces this wood

Word History and Origins

Origin of candlewood¹

1625–35, Americanism; candle + wood ¹; so called because it burns brightly

Example Sentences

The desert light and contrasting colors of purple candlewood blossoms and yellow sagebrush among the Sangre de Cristo mountains also attracted artists from across the Mississippi.

From Los Angeles Times

"Pine-knots" and "candlewood" are household necessities in regions where these trees are the prevailing species of pine.

From Project Gutenberg

The earliest artificial light used by the colonist was candlewood, or pine torches.

From Project Gutenberg

The flaming candlewood licked the resinous logs, and soon the smoke and flames began to enwrap the corpse.

From Project Gutenberg

An experienced guide and a supply of torches, consisting of bundles of candlewood split into small strips, had been provided.

From Project Gutenberg