lighthouse

noun

light·​house ˈlīt-ˌhau̇s How to pronounce lighthouse (audio)
Synonyms of lighthousenext
1
: a structure (such as a tower) with a powerful light that gives a continuous or intermittent signal to navigators
2
: beacon sense 2

Illustration of lighthouse

Illustration of lighthouse
  • lighthouse 1

Examples of lighthouse 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.
Police said the child went underwater along the east side of the catwalk and just south of the lighthouse. — Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026 Pressed against the ship's railing, the sailors spotted a lighthouse and a water tower through binoculars. — Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 1 July 2026 Police said the child disappeared underwater just south of the lighthouse and did not resurface. — Lauren Victory, CBS News, 23 June 2026 Come discover it for yourself, and also explore the area nearby, filled with wineries, lighthouses, and dining and drinking options. — Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lighthouse

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lighthouse was in 1606

Rhymes for lighthouse

See All Rhymes for lighthouse

Browse Nearby Words

light-hour
lighthouse
lighthouse keeper
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Cite this Entry

“Lighthouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lighthouse. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lighthouse

noun
light·​house -ˌhau̇s How to pronounce lighthouse (audio)
: a tower with a powerful light at the top that is built on or near the shore to guide sailors at night
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