traffic light

noun

: a visual signal (such as a system of colored lights) for controlling traffic

Examples of traffic light in a Sentence

Take a left at the traffic light.
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.
The city has begun installing such devices but has just 85 at about 2,800 intersections with traffic lights. Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025 For exactly one minute, a power outage shuts down dozens of software systems across the country, powering down cell phones, televisions, computers, traffic lights, and every manner of computerized system. Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 20 Feb. 2025 Plus that new traffic light is still not operating. Ticked Off, Orlando Sentinel, 14 Feb. 2025 Gould headed east on West Northview Street toward Maple Grove and ran a red traffic light, driving through the intersection without stopping, according to the complaint. Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for traffic light

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of traffic light was in 1912

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Traffic light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traffic%20light. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

traffic light

noun
: a visual signal (as a system of green, yellow, and red lights) for controlling traffic

More from Merriam-Webster on traffic light

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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