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.
Continuing efforts to slow vehicles on busy La Jolla roads, the local Traffic & Transportation Board discussed the possibility of reprogramming traffic lights and installing temporary speed humps. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026 The Toyota was stopped at a traffic light. Thomas Lake, AJC.com, 18 Feb. 2026 Some educators use images of red traffic lights (no AI) and green lights (yes AI) at the top of worksheets. Liz Shulman, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026 At the first traffic light, its driver turned left, toward the coroner’s office. Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 15 Feb. 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 Feb. 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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