taillight

noun

tail·​light ˈtāl-ˌlīt How to pronounce taillight (audio)
: 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, 10 May 2026 The vote requests that the department’s all-civilian watchdog adopt new guidelines similar to San Francisco, which bars police officers from pulling people over for broken taillights and other minor equipment violations unless there is a safety threat. Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026 The man in question, Dale Gossett, was captured on police body camera in a red pickup truck during a routine traffic stop in Tinley Park last November for having a nonworking taillight. Dave Savini, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 The Tennessee Highway Patrol, which leads the task force’s traffic enforcement efforts, usually initiates the traffic stops — often for minor violations such as a broken taillight or windows tinted too dark. Wendi C. Thomas, MLK50, 17 Apr. 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 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

taillight

noun
tail·​light ˈtā(ə)l-ˌlīt How to pronounce taillight (audio)
: a red warning light mounted at the rear of a vehicle

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