lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: a stand used to support a book or script in a convenient position for a standing reader or speaker

especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service

Examples of lectern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Chloe’s mother went up to the lectern and described taking Tyler off a ventilator in the hospital. —Antonia Hitchens, New Yorker, 14 May 2026

Caulfield said, backing away from the lectern and looking to the other university leaders on stage at UCF’s arena. —Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 May 2026

Outside 10 Downing Street, the outgoing Labour PM gives a short speech; and not long afterwards, to thunderous applause and equally loud boos, his successor, Nigel Farage, takes his place behind the same lectern. —The Week Uk, TheWeek, 7 May 2026

Sorensen summoned both Fire Chief Stephen Gollan and Police Chief Bill Schultz to the lectern and quizzed them on their relationship with the city manager. —Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 6 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lettorne, from Anglo-French leitrun, from Medieval Latin lectrinum, from Late Latin lectrum, from Latin legere to read — more at legend

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: a desk to read from while standing

especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service