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

Defense starts addressing jury Standing at the lectern in front of the jury, Srebnick said the crash was a tragedy. —Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 8 June 2026

Popovich moved gingerly and was helped to the lectern by Duncan and Ginóbili. —Tim Rohan, NBC news, 8 June 2026

Back to school Marqise Lee stepped to the lectern Friday, in full cap and gown, looked out over a full crowd at Galen Center, and cleared his throat. —Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2026

In February 2025, Vance stood at a lectern at the Munich Security Conference to address a gathering of prominent European political and military leaders. —Kevin Maloney, The Conversation, 18 May 2026

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