traffic signal

noun

: a signal (such as a traffic light) for controlling traffic

Examples of traffic signal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Williamson’s Chapel United Methodist Church at Brawley School and Williamson roads lost power, and a traffic signal was out at Brawley School Road and Rolling Hill Road near exit 35, an Observer reporter saw. Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 12 Mar. 2026 The aging traffic lights suspended over an intersection will instead become cables stretched between poles with traffic signals attached to horizontal metal arms. Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Mar. 2026 The decision to fund the traffic signal comes as Caltrans and the city are reviewing the final design of the Shore Vista Way (formerly Meister Way) extension and bridge, said city spokesperson Gabby Miller. Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 5 Mar. 2026 Another part of the bill allows local governments to approve conditions, including signs, that allow golf carts to cross a highway at an intersection with a traffic signal. Jim Turner, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for traffic signal

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of traffic signal was in 1893

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Cite this Entry

“Traffic signal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traffic%20signal. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

traffic signal

noun
: a signal (as a traffic light) for controlling traffic

More from Merriam-Webster on traffic signal

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