lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: a stand used to support a book or script in a convenient position for a standing reader or speaker

especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service

Examples of lectern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Speakers at commission meetings typically stand at lecterns to address the board. —Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2025

Within minutes of Trump taking to the lectern in front of Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) members of the opposition began booing and jeering the Republican. —Ted Johnson, Deadline, 4 Mar. 2025

In the photo, taken on Monday, Fetterman is seen giving a thumbs up next to Adam Christian Johnson, who was pictured during the riot walking through the Capitol with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern. —Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

One of the most recognizable figures in the Capitol riots four years ago, a man from Florida seen carrying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lectern, has been excused by President Donald Trump. —Michael Moore Jr., Miami Herald, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lettorne, from Anglo-French leitrun, from Medieval Latin lectrinum, from Late Latin lectrum, from Latin legere to read — more at legend

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: a desk to read from while standing

especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service