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

Marigolds, cascading drapes, and glowing lanterns form a festive canopy of red and gold, blending traditional Indian motifs with the brand’s signature modern aesthetic. —Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 2025

Follow the flickering jack-o-lanterns to The Meadow for games, music and seasonal food and drink around the firepits. —John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 16 Oct. 2025

Another scene shows Nishio-San taking Amélie to a day of the dead ritual, with hundreds of glowing lanterns floating down a river to mark the occasion. —Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 16 Oct. 2025

Flipping a switch on the bottom of the lantern turns it from static to interactive mode. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 Oct. 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