Emily Dickinson Lexicon

LAMP, n. [Fr. lampe; L. lampas; Gr. λαμπας, from λαμπω, to shine; Heb. and Ch. לפיד. Qu.]

1. A vessel for containing oil to be burned by means of a wick; or a light, a burning wick inserted in a vessel of oil. Hence,
2. Figuratively, a light of any kind. The moon is called the lamp of heaven. Thy gentle eyes send forth a quickening spirit, / To feed the dying lump of life within me. – Rowe. Lamp of safety, or safety lamp, a lamp for lighting coal mines, without exposing workmen to the explosion of inflammable air. – Davy.