Definition of "lantern" in 英语

noun

1. A case of translucent or transparent material made to protect a flame, or light, used to illuminate its surroundings.

2. (theater) Especially, a metal casing with lens used to illuminate a stage (e.g. spotlight, floodlight).

3. (architecture) An open structure of light material set upon a roof, to give light and air to the interior.

4. (architecture) A cage or open chamber of rich architecture, open below into the building or tower which it crowns.

5. (architecture) A smaller and secondary cupola crowning a larger one, for ornament, or to admit light.

   • the lantern of the cupola of the Capitol at Washington, or that of the Florence cathedral

6. (engineering) A lantern pinion or trundle wheel.

7. (steam engines) A kind of cage inserted in a stuffing box and surrounding a piston rod, to separate the packing into two parts and form a chamber between for the reception of steam, etc.; a lantern brass.

8. (rail transport) A light formerly used as a signal by a railway guard or conductor at night.

9. (metalworking) A perforated barrel to form a core upon.

10. (zoology) Aristotle's lantern

verb

1. (transitive) To furnish with a lantern.

   • to lantern a lighthouse

adjective

1. Of a facial feature, large and squarish in shape as an old-fashioned lantern.