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 outfitter would furnish a tent, two boats, camp stoves, gas lanterns, ax, and dishes. —Doris Decleene, Outdoor Life, 25 Feb. 2026

Or in the unassuming Chinese mansions found down nondescript alleys of car parts and old lanterns in central Talat Noi. —Chris Schalkx, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026

There’s a similar allure in the four suites at the Fiermonte Museum in Lecce, in Puglia, where guests can use the in-room lanterns to roam the hallways of the tiny property dedicated to the namesake painter and violinist Antonia Fiermonte. —Michelle Tchea, Robb Report, 21 Feb. 2026

Advanced battery tech combined with clever design allows the new lantern to check all the boxes. —New Atlas, 20 Feb. 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