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.
According to testimony from prosecution experts cited by the newspaper, Pollis was traveling approximately 67 mph in a 35-mph zone and drove through a traffic light that had been red for at least five seconds. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026 The group chose roads that would keep them moving, avoiding excessive stop-start riding at traffic lights and intersections wherever possible. — New Atlas, 14 Oct. 2026 Some traffic lights only let two to four cars through before changing to yellow and red. — Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 The neighborhood that surrounds The Homestead is charmingly quiet, to the point where there’s not one traffic light, only stop signs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 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 19 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

traffic light

noun
: a visual signal (as a system of green, yellow, and red lights) for controlling traffic
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