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.
Apple Maps, meanwhile, will tell me to pass the next traffic light and turn right at the one after it. Justin Pot, WIRED, 21 Jan. 2025 In a time before most local traffic lights, Malibu had more of a frontier feel. James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 12 Jan. 2025 Caltrans warned that winds could become strong enough to knock out traffic lights. Karen Kucher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Jan. 2025 According to a press release: Signal timing adjustments have been made at traffic lights at the Taylor Southgate Bridge, Second Street, Hopple Street at I-75 ramp, Liberty Street and Reading Road intersection, Columbia Parkway, and Bains Street and Riverside Drive intersection. Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 24 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near traffic light

Cite this Entry

“Traffic light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traffic%20light. Accessed 5 Feb. 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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