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

Blue paper lanterns swayed in the wind, and people wore traditional Japanese garments to complete the atmosphere. — Meredith Nierman, NPR, 17 July 2026

The men on the porch gave him a lantern and one of them, his neighbor Jean Guidry, jumped into the boat beside him. — Literary Hub, 16 July 2026

The design of the Lusail stadium in Qatar was based on an Arab lantern. — James Horncastle, New York Times, 14 July 2026

All essentials are provided, such as luxury bedding, towels and robes, lanterns, and a firepit with firewood. — Tree Meinch, Midwest Living, 11 July 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