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

The prime minister’s lectern wheeled out at Downing Street. — Alexander Smith, NBC news, 23 June 2026

On Wednesday, Seth Ryan strolled into that same room, climbed a stair and stood at a lectern for a news conference. — Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 11 June 2026

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

Caulfield said, backing away from the lectern and looking to the other university leaders on stage at UCF’s arena. — Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 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