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

The church is where two lanterns were hung in the belfry on April 18, 1775, to warn the colonists that British troops were advancing by sea. — Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 30 June 2026

Local outfitters like Teton Mountaineering and Teton Backcountry Rentals offer everything from tents and coolers to bear spray and lanterns. — Taryn Shorr-McKee, Travel + Leisure, 28 June 2026

The stone lantern adorned with deer in Osaka Garden on the grounds of the Museum of Science and Industry is from the exhibition, and just southeast of there one of the stone structures from the World's Fair is now a Chicago Park District restroom. — Suzanne Le Mignot, CBS News, 27 June 2026

Visitors with a valid California Campfire Permit may continue using portable gas or propane stoves, lanterns and similar devices equipped with a shut-off valve if they are operated at least 3 feet from combustible materials. — Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 26 June 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