: 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.
Check that headlights, taillights, and brake lights work, and use high beams when conditions allow. Chris Hardesty, AJC.com, 23 July 2026 The headlights and taillights look like GR Yaris units, further cementing that relationship. Adam Ismail, The Drive, 22 July 2026 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Taillight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/taillight. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

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

More from Merriam-Webster on taillight

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster