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

At night this is lit by strung lights and lanterns, perfect for an al fresco dip above the urban buzz, while inside lamps cast a soft glow, and thick Roman blinds and bedroom curtains block out all light. — Adrienne Wyper, TheWeek, 17 Sep. 2026

The acorn lanterns will march alongside the Oak King lantern in honor of Atlanta's tree canopy and Trees Atlanta. — Olivia Wakim, AJC.com, 17 Sep. 2026

Green lanterns are interstellar peacekeepers who wear rings that give them extraordinary powers. — Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 14 Sep. 2026

John returns to the motel, takes the ring and lantern from Hal and walks through the rubble of Rushville. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 14 Sep. 2026

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