Chanukiahs

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Nine-branched candelabra lit during the eight-day Jewish festival of Hanukkah, one more flame added each night
2. Multi-branched lampstands used in Jewish homes and synagogues to hold the candles kindled over Hanukkah
3. Ceremonial menorah-like holders with nine arms, the eighth-day lamps used to commemorate the Temple rededication

Etymology: Chanukiah is a Hebrew word meaning "lamp" or "lamp-stand," and it is the name used for the nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-night festival of Hanukkah. The plural "chanukiahs" is the standard English plural of that noun, so it simply refers to more than one of these lamps. The word comes from the Hebrew root "ḥanak," meaning "to dedicate" or "to consecrate," which ties the lamp to the festival's commemoration of the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The ninth branch, called the shamash, is the helper candle used to light the others, and the eight remaining branches correspond to the nights of the holiday.

Synonyms: hanukiah, menorah