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

File photo: The State Department seal is seen on the briefing room lectern at the State Department in Washington. —Emma Marsden, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 June 2025

The move follows the council’s decision last month to limit speakers at the lectern to one at a time, with exceptions for children, those needing interpretive help and people with physical disabilities. —John Aguilar, Denver Post, 11 June 2025

Diddy, who donned a pale-blue sweater, could be seen looking toward Steel at the lectern various times during his cross. —Victoria Bekiempis, Vulture, 30 May 2025

In something of a grand gesture, Caleb Williams stood at a lectern Wednesday to explain that excerpts from an upcoming book were old news. —Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025

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