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

Coach John Harbaugh later stood at the lectern adjacent to the home locker room and tried to put this in perspective. —Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 3 Nov. 2024

The convention center stage was set with a giant American flag and 50 others behind the lectern where Trump eventually spoke. —Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 7 Nov. 2024

Palin and the now-president stood behind lecterns for their debate in 2008. —Dan Mangan,kevin Breuninger,annie Nova,rebecca Picciotto,josephine Rozzelle,brian Schwartz,ece Yildirim, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2024

As the debate opened, Harris walked up to Trump’s lectern to introduce herself, marking the first time the two had ever met. —Josh Boak, Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2024

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