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

While all rooms are spacious and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, silk wallpaper, bedside lanterns and feel modern and Japanese. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Apr. 2026

Ponder the enormously popular magic-lantern shows that appeared in seventeenth-century Europe. —Daniel Birnbaum, Artforum, 2 Apr. 2026

Watch processions of glowing pole lanterns at the Akita Kanto Festival, marvel at the colorful floats of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, and see Sendai explode with kaleidoscopic decorations during the Tanabata Festival. —Zoe Baillargeon, Travel + Leisure, 1 Apr. 2026

Through a gallery with a rotating selection of contemporary works lies a secret garden with antique gates opening to sophisticated tents lit by Venetian lanterns. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 31 Mar. 2026

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