Main Entry: lec·tern

Pronunciation: \ˈlek-tərn\

Function: noun

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

Date: 14th century

: 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