lantern

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

Updated on: 11 Apr 2018

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

See lantern defined for English-language learners

See lantern defined for kids

Recent Examples of lantern from the Web

Kennerly said the library contributed a Chinese brass lion from the City of Foshan and authentic red lanterns presented to the county by representatives of the Chancheng District, of Foshan City, China.

— staff report, Houston Chronicle, "Richmond library opens Autrey photo exhibition," 3 Apr. 2018
Once the lanterns are released after sundown, there will be live music and food trucks.

— sonja haller, azcentral, "Best things to do with kids in Phoenix this April: Free outdoor movies, Earth Day events, Maricopa County Fair," 30 Mar. 2018
This tiny, compact candle lantern will brighten up your campsite with its beautiful glow.

— rebecca straus, Sunset, "10 Best Camping Lights, Lamps, & Lanterns," 22 Jan. 2018
Bashan: Just outside the lantern strung streets of Chinatown, this Hunan restaurant is a real favorite.

— tom marchant, Harper's BAZAAR, "103 Things to Do, See, Eat and Shop in London," 7 Dec. 2017
Guests who arrived on the Wet Deck of the W Fort Lauderdale were greeted by a swimming mermaid, poolside lanterns and a high-energy music set by DJ Jay.

— Billboard, "Next Up: Sabrina Claudio Takes the Stage At W Fort Lauderdale Reveal Event," 13 Mar. 2018
The lanterns were lit, the food was plated and under silver cloches to keep it from cooling, the wine had been uncorked and placed in an ice bucket, bottled water was at the ready, napkins had been unfolded.

— klara glowczewska, Town & Country, "Room Service Is Supposed to Be Great—Here's Why It's Not," 12 Mar. 2018
Boo lanterns dangle from the ceiling and the walls are decorated to look like the inside of Bowser’s castle.

— eder campuzano, OregonLive.com, "Here are 5 ways you can celebrate Mario Day in Portland," 10 Mar. 2018
As legend has it, her cow kicked over a lantern, leading to the fire.

— bill ruthhart, chicagotribune.com, "Ald. Ed Burke takes nostalgic look at his 50 years in Chicago politics," 7 Mar. 2018

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

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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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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lantern

Definition of lantern

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Origin and Etymology of lantern

LANTERN Defined for English Language Learners

lantern

Definition of lantern for English Language Learners

LANTERN Defined for Kids

lantern

Definition of lantern for Students

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