Definition

A type of bowling pin that is tall and thin, used in a game similar to tenpin bowling.

Example

We played candlepin bowling last weekend and had a lot of fun.

Conversation

Have you ever tried playing candlepin bowling before?

No, I haven't! What's it like?

It's really fun and the pins are so much thinner than regular bowling.

That sounds interesting! I should give it a shot sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Candlepin → The word is formed from "candle" (from Old English *candel*, meaning a source of light made from wax) and "pin" (from Old English *pinn*, meaning a small cylindrical object). A candlepin is a small, cylindrical pin used in the game of bowling, resembling a candle in shape.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'candle' as a source of light and a 'pin' as a small object — a candlepin is a small pin that looks like a candle.

Visually Confused Words