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

That system was comprised of putting a lantern in the dormer window of his home between 9 and 10 o'clock, which would mean battle cruisers had left the harbor. —David Martin, CBS News, 7 Dec. 2025

Giancarlo Peris, a runner who in was the final torchbearer for the Rome Olympic Games in 1960, handed the lantern with the Olympic Flame to President of Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, Giovanni Malagò, to light the cauldron. —Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2025

Installing new outdoor sconces or adding a few lanterns is a quick way to make your home feel more inviting, says Toronto interior designer Rebecca Hay. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2025

In the library just off the kitchen, an oversize paper lantern casts a cozy glow above the Phillips Scott chairs. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2025

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