lighthouse

noun

light·​house ˈlīt-ˌhau̇s 

1

: a structure (such as a tower) with a powerful light that gives a continuous or intermittent signal to navigators

2

: beacon sense 2

Illustration of lighthouse

• lighthouse 1

Examples of lighthouse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the shores of Lake Michigan features miles of sand beach, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna, towering bluffs, an island lighthouse, coastal villages, picturesque farmsteads and more. —Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 22 Oct. 2025

To survive, universities must reclaim their calling as moral and intellectual lighthouses, standing firm against intimidation, complacency and fear. —MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025

With two functioning lighthouses, hiking trails, a camping park and stunning beach views, Long Beach Peninsula is a true coastal treasure. —Noreen Kompanik, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025

Located just a short walk from the ferry landing, the circa 1817 lighthouse affectionately known as Old Baldy is open to visitors seasonally. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lighthouse

• alehouse
• almshouse
• backhouse
• baghouse
• bakehouse
• bathhouse
• bauhaus
• blockhouse
• boathouse
• brewhouse
• bunkhouse
• clubhouse

Kids Definition

lighthouse

noun

light·​house -ˌhau̇s 

: a tower with a powerful light at the top that is built on or near the shore to guide sailors at night