Definition of lantern
1 : a usually portable protective case for a light with transparent openings — compare chinese lantern
2a obsolete : lighthouseb : the chamber in a lighthouse containing the lightc : a structure with glazed or open sides above an opening in a roof for light or ventilationd : a small tower or cupola or one stage of a cupola
3 : projector 2b
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Recent Examples of lantern from the Web
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Adding lighting, a bartender sink, or hanging lanterns can make for a festive corner of the yard or center of attention during a patio party.
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There are night watchmen trudging through the snow and a lamplighter with his ladder and lantern.
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Further, waiting for Fox News or TheBlaze to denounce these death threats against Taylor is as futile as holding a lantern up in broad daylight looking for an honest man.
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North Miami’s Chinatown arts district could include a promenade with shade trees and street lights inspired by Chinese lanterns.
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No lanterns are allowed and flashlights should have only red lights -- no white lights.
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Behind each Bedouin-style tent is a retro-safari aesthetic (think iron lanterns, vintage suitcases and rush matting) paired with flawless modern amenities.
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Marissa Brown, who has moved back home to Hawaii to be closer to family, plans a quiet Monday, participating in the lantern float on Ala Moana Beach organized by a Buddhist group.
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The celebration of all things photovoltaic, in New York City through October 25, includes lanterns and laptops, cookers and cars, and even a mower that grazes the lawn from sunrise to sunset.
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
LANTERN Defined for English Language Learners
lantern
playDefinition of lantern for English Language Learners
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: a light that has usually a glass covering and that can be carried by a handle
LANTERN Defined for Kids
lantern
playDefinition of lantern for Students
: a usually portable lamp with a protective covering
Learn More about lantern
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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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