dark lantern

American  

noun

1. a lantern having an opening with a shutter that can be slid across the opening to obscure the light.

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dark lantern British  

noun

1. a lantern having a sliding shutter or panel to dim or hide the light

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Etymology

Origin of dark lantern

First recorded in 1640–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

dark lantern

He flayed the Administration for what he called its "dark lantern diplomacy."

From Time Magazine Archive

A dark lantern was uncovered, and its light fell on the astonished face of the farmer.

From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien

He then lit a dark lantern and pointed to the coffin.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

After the lapse of some time a little shutter opened in the door, and the light of a dark lantern, and a swarthy warrior-like visage, appeared.

From King Eric and the Outlaws, Vol. 2 or, the Throne, the Church, and the People in the Thirteenth Century. Vol. I. by Ingemann, Bernhard Severin

Judy crept to her room and returned presently with a little electric dark lantern her father had given her.

From Molly Brown's Junior Days by Speed, Nell