cresset

noun cres·set \ˈkre-sət\

Definition of CRESSET

: an iron vessel or basket used for holding an illuminant (as oil) and mounted as a torch or suspended as a lantern

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from creisse, gresse grease — more at grease

First Known Use: 14th century

Next Word in the Dictionary: cress greenPrevious Word in the Dictionary: cressAll Words Near: cresset

What made you want to look up cresset? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears