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

Deutch and Tatro's joint post included a collection of Polaroids from the big moment, which featured a seaside proposal and plenty of lanterns lighting the couple's way. —Jen Juneau, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025

Your animal friends will get tasty pumpkin treats and seasonal enrichment as jack o' lanterns become reefs for the underwater creatures. —Caroline Ritzie, Cincinnati Enquirer, 28 Sep. 2025

The gallery features a parchment-cream limestone façade accented with bronze columns and crystal lanterns. —Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 26 Sep. 2025

String fairy lights along the railing, line your steps with lanterns filled with faux candles or add wall sconces beside the door. —Angie Hicks, Boston Herald, 25 Sep. 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