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

And having rolled your eyes in ecstasy at the solid then—abruptly—molten Modica chocolate pudding, edge into the cigar lounge or nurse a Tasca D’Almerita red on a terrace wrapped in cashmere and flickering lanterns. —Rosalyn Wikeley, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Jan. 2026

With an island-chic aesthetic—rattan lanterns, antique blue-and-white porcelain, a palette of forest green and clay—the Terra Brava offers an elegant setting for relaxation between island adventures. —Gisela Williams, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2026

North Texas is bringing out the red lanterns and getting ready to celebrate the Year of the Horse during the Chinese Lunar New Year. —Alyson Rodriguez, Dallas Morning News, 12 Jan. 2026

In the evening, Kura Kura is transformed by lanterns and the fading light of the setting sun. —Arion McNicoll, TheWeek, 12 Jan. 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