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

Among the most notable is Teatro del Bíobío, a performing arts venue in the city of Concepción that, by night, radiates warm light through a semi-translucent facade like a paper lantern. —Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 12 Mar. 2026

By night, the scene softens with storm lanterns lit by hotel staff, who also patrol the premises. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026

Instead of forcing lasers to synchronize phases, the lantern simply merges their outputs efficiently. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Mar. 2026

After a long winter, planters, pillows, lanterns, and other decorations might look a little tired. —Abby Price, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 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