When you hear 'lantern' are you hearing English or Latin?

'Lantern' is a word borrowed from Latin 'lanterna'. The word entered the English language some time around the 13th century.

lantern [noun] [13th century]

• a usually portable protective case for a light with transparent openings
• lighthouse
• the chamber in a lighthouse containing the light
• a structure with glazed or open sides above an opening in a roof for light or ventilation

Meaning: a usually portable protective case for a light with transparent openings compare chinese lantern; lighthouse; the chamber in a lighthouse containing the light.

Etymology: Middle English lanterne; from Anglo-French; from Latin lanterna; from Greek lampter; from lampein to shine lamp.

Topics: Household:Objects.

Origin: From Latin to English.

note: An alternate historical spelling was 'lanthorn' possibly derived from the ancient use of animal horn to cover window apertures but allow in light.

See 'lantern' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Latin.

See more loan words from 1200s.