The spelling of the word "candlepins" can cause confusion due to its unusual pronunciation. The word refers to a type of bowling game played in New England, and is pronounced as /ˈkændəlˌpɪnz/. The phonetic transcription shows that the stress falls on the first syllable, and the final -s is pronounced. The vowel sound in the second syllable is reduced to a short schwa, while the letters 'd' and 'l' are pronounced distinctly. By knowing the IPA transcription, one can confidently use the correct spelling for this word.
Candlepins is a term mainly used in the sport of bowling, referring to a variation of the game that is played predominantly in the New England region of the United States. Candlepins is characterized by the unique shape of its pins and the distinctive type of bowling ball used.
In candlepins, the pins are tall, narrow, and cylindrical in shape, resembling candles, hence the name. These pins are typically around 15 inches in height and have a diameter of approximately 2.75 inches at the base. This differs significantly from traditional tenpin bowling, where the pins are larger and have a triangular shape.
The bowling ball used in candlepins is also distinct. It is much smaller than a typical bowling ball, with a diameter of no more than 4.5 inches and a weight not exceeding 2 pounds and 8 ounces. The ball has no finger holes, requiring players to grasp it and roll it down the lane using only their hands.
Candlepins is known for its challenging and often unpredictable nature. The slender pins are harder to knock down, as are reset after each roll, adding an extra level of difficulty. Furthermore, the smaller, weighty ball requires a different technique and level of precision compared to traditional bowling.
Overall, candlepins is a unique and regional variant of the sport, with its own set of rules and challenges. It is often seen as a test of skill and finesse, rewarding players who can adapt their strategy to the distinctive properties of the game.
The word "candlepins" is derived from the two components that make up the sport of Candlepin Bowling. "Candle" refers to the shape of the pins used in this variation of bowling, resembling slender, straight candles as compared to the wider and bulbous pins used in ten-pin bowling. The term "pins" is self-explanatory, referring to the objects that players aim to knock down with the ball. Thus, the combination of these two terms, "candle" and "pins", gives rise to the name "candlepins". The sport of Candlepin Bowling itself originated in the late 19th century in Massachusetts, United States, and gradually gained popularity in the New England region.