candlepins: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, regional, sports-related
Quick answer
What does “candlepins” mean?
A specific type of slender bowling pin, and the bowling game using these pins.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific type of slender bowling pin, and the bowling game using these pins.
Refers both to the physical pins used in a regional variant of tenpin bowling, and to the sport itself, which is most popular in the Canadian Maritime provinces and New England region of the United States. It may also be used metonymically for the establishment where the game is played (e.g., "the candlepins" as a venue).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is essentially North American, originating and almost exclusively used in Canada and the northeastern US. It is virtually unknown in British English, where 'bowling' typically refers to lawn bowling, tenpin bowling, or skittles.
Connotations
In its native regions, it connotes a local, traditional pastime, often perceived as less commercialised than standard tenpin bowling. Outside those regions, it carries no specific connotations due to lack of familiarity.
Frequency
Frequency is extremely low globally. It sees moderate use in local news, sports reports, and community activities within its specific geographical strongholds in Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick) and the USA (Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island).
Grammar
How to Use “candlepins” in a Sentence
[Subject] plays candlepins.[Subject] went to the candlepins.[Determiner] candlepins leagueVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “candlepins” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (No specific British usage; concept not present)
American English
- (The word is not used as a verb.)
adverb
British English
- (No usage as an adverb)
American English
- (No usage as an adverb)
adjective
British English
- (No specific British usage; concept not present)
American English
- She holds the state candlepin bowling record.
- We joined a candlepin league for the summer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare. Might appear in the context of family entertainment centre management or regional sports equipment sales.
Academic
Very rare, potentially in historical or sociological studies of regional North American sports culture.
Everyday
Common only within the specific regions where the game is played. Used in casual conversation about recreational activities. (e.g., "Fancy a game of candlepins tonight?")
Technical
Used in the specific context of bowling sports to distinguish this variant from tenpin and duckpin bowling. Discusses rules, equipment specifications, and scoring.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “candlepins”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “candlepins”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “candlepins”
- Using 'candlepin' as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'I play candlepin'). The sport is typically referred to in the plural: 'candlepins' or 'candlepin bowling.'
- Confusing it with 'duckpins,' which is a different but similar regional bowling variant.
- Assuming it is understood internationally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Candlepins uses much thinner, cylindrical pins (resembling candles), a smaller handheld ball (no finger holes), and different scoring rules where fallen pins are not cleared between throws in a frame.
No. Candlepin balls are much smaller (4.5 inches in diameter), have no finger holes, and are designed to be held in the palm of your hand.
The name derives from the pins' visual resemblance to old-fashioned tall, thin candles.
No. It is a regional sport and has not been recognized for Olympic competition.
A specific type of slender bowling pin, and the bowling game using these pins.
Candlepins is usually informal, regional, sports-related in register.
Candlepins: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkænd(ə)lpɪnz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkændl̩pɪnz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(no established idioms; the word itself is too specific)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a birthday cake with candles, but the candles are shaped like tall, thin bowling pins. The game is 'candlepins' because the pins resemble straight candles.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPORT IS A REGIONAL IDENTITY (The game serves as a marker of cultural identity for New England and the Maritimes).
Practice
Quiz
Where is the sport of candlepins most commonly played?