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

The private beachfront dinners that include four courses plus beverage service served at a table surrounded by lanterns, facing the ocean. —Devorah Lev-Tov, Robb Report, 5 Feb. 2026

Our picks for the best solar lawn lights that stay on all night include solar globe lights, in-ground lights, lanterns, and even torches. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Feb. 2026

The rotating calendar can show dates in either month-and-day or day-and-month formats and also comes with lanterns, firecrackers, and red envelopes to accessorize your calendar with even more good luck. —Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 4 Feb. 2026

The square arch door opened to gleaming black marble floors reflecting golden lanterns and plush seats. —Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 31 Jan. 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