: a usually red warning light mounted at the rear of a vehicle

called also taillamp

Examples of taillight 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.
Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which also activate your taillights. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026 State officials updated guidance for traffic stops involving legally armed drivers and Ramsey County law enforcement agencies shifted away from stopping drivers solely for equipment violations, such as broken taillights. Tyler Quattrin, Twin Cities, 7 July 2026 Make your vehicle visible to others both ahead of you and behind you by using your low-beam headlights since this means your taillights will also be on. Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 5 July 2026 These four-seaters — mimicking a Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R and Toyota Supra — all come complete with working taillights. Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for taillight

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of taillight was in 1844

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Cite this Entry

“Taillight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/taillight. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a red warning light mounted at the rear of a vehicle

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