chinese lantern
/'tʃaini:z'læntən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A Chinese lantern is a collapsible lantern made of thin, brightly colored paper or silk stretched over a folding bamboo or wire frame. It is primarily used for decoration, especially during festivals and celebrations, and is designed to be easily stored when not in use due to its collapsible nature.
Usage
The term Chinese lantern refers specifically to the decorative object itself. It is used to describe both the traditional lanterns associated with East Asian culture and similar decorative items used worldwide. * They hung Chinese lanterns across the garden for the summer party. * The festival was illuminated by hundreds of red Chinese lanterns.
Advanced Usage
- As a collective noun: The term can be used in the plural to describe a decorative setup.
- The patio was adorned with strings of Chinese lanterns.
Variants and Related Words
- Paper lantern: A more general term for a lantern made of paper, which may or may not be collapsible like a traditional Chinese lantern.
- Sky lantern (or Kongming lantern): A related but distinct item. It is a small hot air balloon made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a small fire is suspended. It is designed to be released into the sky, whereas a standard Chinese lantern is typically hung.
Synonyms
- Decorative lantern
- Paper lantern (in a general sense)
Related Phrases
- To hang Chinese lanterns: The common action associated with decorating with these items.
- We spent the afternoon hanging Chinese lanterns from the trees.
Noun
- a collapsible paper lantern in bright colors; used for decorative purposes