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.
During the morning and afternoon rush hours, traffic can be heavy and quick, with cars coming in bunches after nearby traffic lights turn green. Karen Kucher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Oct. 2025 The band also incorporates Tramel's giant handmade props, which include a papier-mâché 8-ball, a traffic light and big speakers. Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Oct. 2025 This Irish American neighborhood is famous for its quirky upside-down traffic light, where green proudly sits above red—a symbol of its defiant community spirit. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025 Pedestrians must obey traffic-control devices, such as traffic lights, signs and barricades. Mara H. Gottfried, Twin Cities, 18 Oct. 2025 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 2 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

traffic light

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

More from Merriam-Webster on traffic light

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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