lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: 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

In the photo, taken on Monday, Fetterman is seen giving a thumbs up next to Adam Christian Johnson, who was pictured during the riot walking through the Capitol with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern. —Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

One of the most recognizable figures in the Capitol riots four years ago, a man from Florida seen carrying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lectern, has been excused by President Donald Trump. —Michael Moore Jr., Miami Herald, 22 Jan. 2025

Trump hears about flooding, landslides in western North Carolina Bright spoke at a lectern with the presidential seal set up on a patch of muddy gravel in Swannanoa, North Carolina, where a temporary plywood floor had been laid. —Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2025

But on the evening of Mr. Biden’s first day in office, the page showed Mr. Biden at a lectern, hands folded, in front of a large American flag. —Tim Balk, New York Times, 22 Jan. 2025

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

Kids Definition

lectern

noun

lec·​tern ˈlek-tərn 

: a desk to read from while standing

especially : one from which scripture lessons are read in a church service