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

From Project Gutenberg

Others growled applause as they saw the den illuminated by the lurid flame of the candlewood which the proprietor lighted.

From Project Gutenberg

Ellen lit a torch of candlewood and opened the door: three men entered.

From Project Gutenberg

"It is unnecessary," Curumilla said, coming up, loaded with candlewood.

From Project Gutenberg

This was called candlewood in New England and lightwood in the South.

From Project Gutenberg