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 lantern2 aobsolete : 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 cupola3: projector 2b