[lan.tern] n, often attrib [ME lanterne, fr. OF, fr. L lanterna, fr. Gk lampter, fr. lampein to shine--more at lamp] (13c) 1: a usu. portable protective case for a light with transparent openings--compare chinese lantern
2. a obs: 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 2b