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

For more of our favorite pieces in Pottery Barn’s outlet sale, check out our top picks below with everything from lanterns to outdoor rugs, bar stools, bird baths, and more. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2025

Its central glass dome—home to the swimming paradise—glows like a lantern at dusk. —Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Over the weekend, around 16,000 people paid their respects to the designer at his funeral chamber at the Armani Teatro designed by Tadao Ando, filled with white flowers and paper lanterns on the floor in a diagonal grid formation dimly lit up the darkened venue. —Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2025

This Halloween, classic jack-o-lanterns are getting an innovative upgrade. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 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