n. & v.
n. 1 a device for producing a steady light, esp.: a an electric bulb, and usu. its holder and shade or cover (bedside lamp; bicycle lamp). b an oil-lamp. c a usu. glass holder for a candle. d a gas-jet and mantle. 2 a source of spiritual or intellectual inspiration. 3 poet. the sun, the moon, or a star. 4 a device producing esp. ultraviolet or infrared radiation as a treatment for various complaints.
v. 1 intr. poet. shine. 2 tr. supply with lamps; illuminate. 3 tr. US sl. look at. lamp-chimney a glass cylinder enclosing and making a draught for an oil-lamp flame. lamp-holder a device for supporting a lamp, esp. an electric one. lamp standard = LAMPPOST. lampless adj.
[ ME f. OF lampe f. LL lampada f. accus. of L lampas torch f. Gk ]