stoplight

noun

stop·​light ˈstäp-ˌlīt How to pronounce stoplight (audio)
1
: a light on the rear of a motor vehicle that is illuminated when the driver presses the brake pedal
2

Examples of stoplight 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.
Construction crews will replace four-way stop signs with stoplights and install accompanying sidewalks, crosswalks, walk signals and ramps. Jaime Moore-Carrillo, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Apr. 2025 It’s often broken down like a stoplight, with green, yellow, and red zones. Susan Russell, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2025 The law prohibits drivers from touching their phones while behind the wheel, including when at a stoplight or in traffic. Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 31 Mar. 2025 With no stoplights or high-rises, the island is an old-school beach town at its best. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stoplight

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stoplight was in 1926

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Cite this Entry

“Stoplight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stoplight. Accessed 28 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

stoplight

noun
stop·​light ˈstäp-ˌlīt How to pronounce stoplight (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on stoplight

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