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

Someone even had the wherewithal to steal the lantern attached to a wall near the restaurant’s entrance. —Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026

The soft glow of lanterns against ancient mounds turns a seemingly simple walk into a reflective, cinematic journey through American history. —Rafael Peña, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2026

Coast delivered with the EAL35R, an old-school lantern with a few modern tricks, including voice control. —Graham Averill, Outside, 20 Mar. 2026

Not just reserved for jack-o-lanterns and lattes, pumpkin, more specifically, the oil that comes from roasting, grinding, and squeezing the seeds, is trending as an ingredient that can be beneficial for your scalp and hair. —Mykenna Maniece, Vogue, 19 Mar. 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