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Definition of lectern

lectern

/ˈlɛk.tɚn/
lec · tern
Plural:lecterns
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lectern Lexical Profile

lectern Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A tall stand with a sloping top from which a speaker or reader delivers a speech, lecture, or reads aloud, commonly used in churches, lecture halls, and auditoriums.

Example

"The guest speaker confidently stepped up to the lectern, adjusted the microphone, and began her keynote address."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for lectern

Word Nuance & Usage

The words "lectern" and "podium" are frequently confused; strictly speaking, a speaker stands on a podium (a raised platform) and places their notes on a lectern (a slanted reading desk).

• Nearby Words

lecherous
lecherously
lechwe
lectern
lecture
lecturer
lectureship

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'lettorne', via Old French 'letrin' from Late Latin 'lectrum' (reading desk), which derives from the Latin verb 'legere' (to read).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lectern. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lectern
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