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

Bedside lanterns, traditional tea pots above the minibar, and authentic decorative pottery fill the room. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 May 2026

From the quirky and colorful summer mermaid gathering to Aqualumina Festival, where lanterns and performances light up the river’s edge, Frenchtown's events bring locals and visitors together in joyful, unexpected ways. —Hannah Howard, Travel + Leisure, 10 May 2026

The festival, one of South Korea’s largest public celebrations, draws thousands of participants each year and features large-scale lantern displays, processions, and cultural performances. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 May 2026

Each lantern is battery-powered, rechargeable with a USB-C connection, and lights up and plays music for up to 10 hours. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 May 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