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

In one instance, during a news conference on July 26, 2023, McConnell stopped speaking and stood silently for nearly 30 seconds before being escorted away from a lectern by his Republican colleagues. —Melina Khan, USA Today, 15 June 2026

On Wednesday, Seth Ryan strolled into that same room, climbed a stair and stood at a lectern for a news conference. —Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 11 June 2026

Defense starts addressing jury Standing at the lectern in front of the jury, Srebnick said the crash was a tragedy. —Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 8 June 2026

Popovich moved gingerly and was helped to the lectern by Duncan and Ginóbili. —Tim Rohan, NBC news, 8 June 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