lighthouse

noun

light·​house ˈlīt-ˌhau̇s How to pronounce lighthouse (audio)
Synonyms of lighthousenext
1
: a structure (such as a tower) with a powerful light that gives a continuous or intermittent signal to navigators
2

Illustration of lighthouse

Illustration of lighthouse
  • lighthouse 1

Examples of lighthouse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The list of candidates was revealed in the lighthouse and in the cave, where their names were written with corresponding numbers that recurred throughout the series (4, 8, 15, 16, 23, 42). Janey Tracey, Entertainment Weekly, 23 May 2026 One of a handful of centuries-old lighthouses still standing in the Outer Banks today, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is open to visitors at ground level and often has National Park Service interpreters on site to share information about the beacon. Caroline Eubanks, Travel + Leisure, 22 May 2026 Travelers can explore lighthouses, canals and cultural landmarks across the Great Lakes region on one unforgettable trip. Victoria E. Freile, USA Today, 20 May 2026 Feel the sea breeze along the shores of Maine at the Portland Head Light lighthouse. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for lighthouse

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lighthouse was in 1606

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Cite this Entry

“Lighthouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lighthouse. Accessed 28 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

lighthouse

noun
light·​house -ˌhau̇s How to pronounce lighthouse (audio)
: a tower with a powerful light at the top that is built on or near the shore to guide sailors at night
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