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 city is perhaps best known for its Old Town neighborhood, founded in 1749 and packed with historic Southern charm thanks to a plethora of gas lanterns, cobblestone streets, and 18th-century townhouses. —Madeline Weinfield, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025

A lot of neighborhoods have luminary traditions that involve lining DIY paper lanterns along the streets and pathways. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 11 Nov. 2025

Add height, but still maintain a minimalist look, with clear acrylic or glass candlesticks and a glass lantern in the center. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Nov. 2025

Behind the statue, the Old North Church too has been immortalized for its role as the spot where Revere arranged for lanterns to be hung as a signal of the direction British troops were heading. —Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 10 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