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

Here, visitors and locals alike stroll through the historic adobe neighborhood surrounded by hundreds of lanterns (farolitos) and pinion bonfires. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 14 Dec. 2025

Flextail's new air pump for inflating mattresses, rafts, and pillows makes a strong case for a slot in your loadout with its diminutive build and ability to do double duty as a versatile lantern. —Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 12 Dec. 2025

Throughout scenes of more than 1,000 silk lanterns, zoo-goers can enjoy the colorful art alongside the resident wildlife. —Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 12 Dec. 2025

Energizer WeatheReady Camping Lantern Small but surprisingly bright, this lantern provides wide-angle lighting for tents, cooking areas, or emergencies. —Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 11 Dec. 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