lantern

noun, often attributive lan·tern \ ˈlan-tərn \

Definition of lantern

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 2b

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See lantern defined for kids

Recent Examples of lantern from the Web

Design buffs note the bold temporary spotted wallpaper, gold accents, and the paper lantern lighting.

— katelyn chef, Teen Vogue, "DIY Dorm Decor at University of North Carolina," 29 Aug. 2017
A few frayed Japanese lanterns hang on the weathered exterior that looks out onto 1st Street, just east of Mariachi Plaza, and a sign on the door reminds anyone coming for the crackling tempura that the place closes nightly at eight.

— patric kuh, Los Angeles Magazine, "The Last Bento-Ya in Boyle Heights Transports Diners to the Neighborhood’s Past," 25 Aug. 2017
THE VIBE IS: dreamy—all light wood and sky-high ceilings and Noguchi paper lanterns and custom teal ceramics from Heath.

— Bon Appetit, "Tartine Manufactory," 1 Aug. 2017
In Korea, it is used for sliding doors and lanterns, so is very sturdy.

— Howard County Times, "Get fresh produce and meet the farmers at local market," 13 July 2017
The family also planned a lantern release Friday night.

— kyle potter, The Seattle Times, "Celebrations, vigil mark year since Philando Castile death," 6 July 2017
Kentucky Myle Band performs at 7 p.m. A lantern launch will be at 10 p.m. • Saturday, July 1: The Cars and Pipes automobile and motorcycle show will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kroger Marketplace parking lot near Memorial Park.

— chris mayhew, Cincinnati.com, "Independence blasts into 175th year with special fireworks," 26 June 2017
The tables had African lanterns, wooden elephants, and floral arrangements of roses and poppies.

— trulia, Teen Vogue, "Beyoncé, JAY Z, Blue Ivy, and the Twins Have a New Home," 26 June 2017
Oversize lanterns lit by flameless LED candles can hang or perch along any path that needs brightening.

— martha stewart, star-telegram.com, "Take it outside for a stylish summer party," 22 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lantern.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of lantern

Middle English lanterne, from Anglo-French, from Latin lanterna, from Greek lamptēr, from lampein to shine — more at lamp

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 13th century

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LANTERN Defined for English Language Learners

lantern

noun

Definition of lantern for English Language Learners

: a light that has usually a glass covering and that can be carried by a handle

LANTERN Defined for Kids

lantern

noun lan·tern \ ˈlan-tərn \

Definition of lantern for Students

:a usually portable lamp with a protective covering

Learn More about lantern

Spanish Central: Translation of lantern Nglish: Translation of lantern for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of lantern for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lantern

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Definition of lantern

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lantern

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