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

The subtle glow of lanterns and votives, meanwhile, is ideal for winding down with friends over a glass (or two) of wine. —Maggie Burch, Southern Living, 8 June 2026

Greg Butler, the owner of the Main Line Armory, bought the replica lantern and created an eternal flame beneath it. —Jayson Buford, Robb Report, 4 June 2026

The image of James’s paper lantern, let go and floating up into the night sky like a second moon, augurs his eventual fleeing from his family. —Literary Hub, 3 June 2026

Wildly pretty during the day when the harsh Puglian sun hits the mellow tufu limestone buildings and the shocking bright bougainvillea, and even lovelier at night when the entire place is lit by citronella lanterns, smoking into the warm air. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 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