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.
Drivers had to abandon their cars at blinking traffic lights and seek shelter. Will Ripley, CNN Money, 17 July 2025 Michigan has also contributed innovations to traffic safety, from the traffic light to the center line stripes. Clara Hendrickson, Freep.com, 11 July 2025 That passion goes all the way up to the traffic lights. Emily Olsen, New York Times, 8 July 2025 The Department of Transportation & Engineering will reinstall equipment that controls traffic lights at Mehring Way Thursday and along Kellogg Avenue Friday. Bebe Hodges, The Enquirer, 2 July 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 23 Jul. 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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