lantern

noun

lan·​tern ˈlan-tərn 

often attributive

1

: a usually portable protective case for a light with transparent openings compare chinese lantern

2

a

obsolete : lighthouse

b

: the chamber in a lighthouse containing the light

c

: a structure with glazed or open sides above an opening in a roof for light or ventilation

d

: a small tower or cupola or one stage of a cupola

3

: projector sense 2b

Examples of lantern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The rail buff may focus on dining car china, lanterns, switch locks and keys, calendars, timetables or any other artifacts utilized by the railroads. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2025

From orreries and lantern slides to opto-mechanical and digital planetariums, the communication of astronomy has always been about more than just the latest results of science. —Martin Bush, Space.com, 5 July 2025

As Amélie gradually learns to make sense of the world — parting the waters of the sea to examine all the creatures living there, and constructing paper lanterns with Nishio for the Obon festival of the dead — the movie works its magic. —Peter Debruge, Variety, 5 July 2025

Learn about the original sugar makers, search for sap by lantern light in the sugarbush, and enjoy maple cocktails and cooking demonstrations. —Luann Gibbs, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lanterne, from Anglo-French, from Latin lanterna, from Greek lamptēr, from lampein to shine — more at lamp

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing lantern

• Chinese lantern
• dark lantern
• friar's lantern
• jack-o'-lantern
• lantern fish
• lantern fly
• lantern jaw
• magic lantern
• spotted lantern fly

Kids Definition

lantern

noun

lan·​tern ˈlant-ərn 

1

: a usually portable light with a protective covering

2

: projector