(1.) That part of the candle-sticks of the tabernacle and the temple which bore the light (Exodus 25:37; 1 Kings 7:49; 2 Chronicles 4:20; 13:11; Zechariah 4:2). Their form is not described. Olive oil was generally burned in them (Exodus 27:20).

(2.) A torch carried by the soliders of Gideon (Judges 7:16, 20). (R.V., "torches.")

(3.) Domestic lamps (A.V., "candles") were in common use among the Hebrews (Matthew 5:15; Mark 4:21, etc.).

(4.) Lamps or torches were used in connection with marriage ceremonies (Matthew 25:1).

This word is also frequently metaphorically used to denote life, welfare, guidance, etc. (2 Samuel 21:17; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 6:23; 13:9).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) A thin plate or lamina.

2. (n.) A light-producing vessel, instrument or apparatus; especially, a vessel with a wick used for the combustion of oil or other inflammable liquid, for the purpose of producing artificial light.

3. (n.) Figuratively, anything which enlightens intellectually or morally; anything regarded metaphorically a performing the uses of a lamp.

4. (n.) A device or mechanism for producing light by electricity. See Incandescent lamp, under Incandescent.