Rushlights, which were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, were candles made from rushes dipped in wax or tallow. These candles were cheap, easy to make, and provided a dim light. There are several synonyms for rushlights, including taper candles, dipped candles, hand-dipped candles, and rush-candles. Taper candles are tall, thin candles that have a pointed end while dipped candles are made by repeatedly dipping a wick into melted wax or tallow. Hand-dipped candles are made in a similar fashion, but the wick is rotated by hand to create an even coating of wax or tallow. Rush-candles specifically refer to candles made from rushes, similar to rushlights.