Main Entry: lan·tern

Pronunciation: \ˈlan-tərn\

Function: noun

Usage: often attributive

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

Date: 13th century

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 2b