license plate

noun

: a plate or tag (as of metal) attesting that a license has been secured and usually bearing a registration number

Examples of license plate 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.
Authorities also said a gunshot detection alert system and automatic license plate reader cameras were of assistance in the investigation. Harry Harris, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024 Authorities were searching for a black or dark-colored 2001-2004 Volvo S-60 with no front license plate and an unknown rear plate. John Bacon, USA TODAY, 31 Oct. 2024 The vehicle has dark wheels, unpainted body trim and no front license plate, police said. Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 30 Oct. 2024 California and Mexican Chihuahua license plates line the walls, along with photos of Los Angeles athletes who have won championships. Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for license plate 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of license plate was circa 1924

Dictionary Entries Near license plate

Cite this Entry

“License plate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/license%20plate. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

license plate

noun
: a plate or tag (as of metal) showing that a license has been gotten and usually bearing a registration number

More from Merriam-Webster on license plate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!