# lantern

/ˈɫæntɝn/ (US) · /lˈɑːntən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lantern
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. portable lamp

noun · CEFR B1

a light that you can carry, usually with a glass or plastic case to protect the flame or bulb from wind.

For teachers: a portable light source consisting of a protective case of transparent or translucent material that shields a flame or electric bulb.

- We carried a lantern to find our way back to the tent in the dark.
- The campers relied on a battery-powered lantern to illuminate the interior of the cave during their evening exploration.

### 2. roof structure

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a small structure on top of a roof with windows to let light and air into a building.

For teachers: an architectural structure crowning a roof or dome, designed to admit light or provide ventilation to the space below.

- The old library had a beautiful glass lantern that let the sun shine on the desks.
- The cathedral's central dome is topped by an ornate stone lantern that serves as both a decorative element and a source of natural illumination for the nave.

### 3. stage lighting

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a professional light used in a theatre to shine on the stage.

For teachers: a metal-cased lighting unit, often equipped with a lens, used to provide specific illumination in theatrical productions.

- The technician adjusted the lantern to make sure the lead actor was in the light.
- The lighting designer specified several high-intensity lanterns to be mounted on the rig to create a dramatic silhouette effect during the final scene.

### 4. facial shape

adjective · CEFR C2 · Literary

used to describe a face that is long and thin with a strong, square jaw.

For teachers: describing a facial structure, particularly the jaw, that is long, thin, and prominently squarish.

- The old sailor had a lantern jaw and a very serious expression.
- The protagonist was described as having a lantern jaw, giving him a rugged and determined appearance that suited his role as a pioneer.

Usage: Almost always used in the phrase 'lantern jaw' or 'lantern-jawed'.

## Examples

- He carried a lantern to light the path through the dark woods.
- During the power outage, we used a battery-powered lantern to light the kitchen while we cooked dinner.
- The festival concluded with hundreds of paper lanterns floating into the night sky, creating a glowing trail that reflected off the calm surface of the lake.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.