lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn How to pronounce lectern (audio)
: a stand used to support a book or script in a convenient position for a standing reader or speaker
especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service

Examples of lectern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Later, as Heilbrun said Clancy's mental health symptoms got worse in response to medications, Reddington again walked away from the courtroom lectern to the area just behind where Clancy is sitting. — Melina Khan, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 To stand before Hirsch’s Ark door and his lectern at Chicago Sinai Congregation was to feel the power of faith in creating societal good. — Chicago Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026 When the doors flung open, Sharpton entered to a standing ovation that continued until he was perched behind a lectern, on a stage decorated with a floor-to-ceiling video screen. — Aaron Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026 The prime minister’s lectern wheeled out at Downing Street. — Alexander Smith, NBC news, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lectern

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lettorne, from Anglo-French leitrun, from Medieval Latin lectrinum, from Late Latin lectrum, from Latin legere to read — more at legend

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lectern was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

lect
lectern
lectin
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Cite this Entry

“Lectern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lectern. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lectern

noun
lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn How to pronounce lectern (audio)
: a desk to read from while standing
especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service

More from Merriam-Webster on lectern

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lectern

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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