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
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.
The intersecting street was the responsibility of the city, but the traffic signals were the responsibility of the county. Kaitlyn Tiffany, The Atlantic, 22 Oct. 2025 Major fill work is underway near Chick-fil-A, and a temporary traffic signal is being installed, town officials said. Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 18 Oct. 2025 Kansas City’s 311 website has a traffic signal section for reporting malfunctioning signal timing. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2025 Assistant Public Works Director Scott Schneider said the technology can see up the road and determine the speed and position of vehicles in real time, and adjust the traffic signal accordingly. Krissy Waite, Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2025 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 3 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

traffic signal

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

More from Merriam-Webster on traffic signal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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