lantern

A lantern is a portable lighting device that encloses a light source within a protective housing, usually consisting of glass panels held in a frame and topped with a cap. The enclosure shields the flame or light from wind, dust, and accidental contact, allowing the device to be carried, hung, or placed on a surface. Lanterns have been used for illumination, signaling, and work in dark environments across many cultures and historical periods.

Historically, lanterns used candles or oil lamps. Variants include hurricane or storm lanterns designed to resist wind, and lanterns fueled by whale oil or kerosene. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries carbide lamps provided acetylene light for mining and outdoor use. Today, electric lanterns powered by batteries or rechargeable cells are common, with LEDs favored for efficiency, brightness, and long life. Construction ranges from traditional glass globes and metal frames to lightweight plastic enclosures.

Construction and design features typically include a fuel reservoir or light source, a wick or burner for flame-based models, a glass chimney or enclosed lens for protection, and a carrying handle or hook for portability. Some lanterns incorporate reflectors, diffusers, or multiple brightness settings, and may be designed specifically for camping, emergency kits, nautical use, or general outdoor illumination.

Uses of lanterns include camping, hiking, and nighttime outdoor work, as well as standby lighting during power outages. They are also used for signaling, rescue, and ceremonial or decorative purposes, with many contemporary models emphasizing safety, durability, and versatility across various environments.