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.
Phase two of the construction project includes new sidewalks, curbs, ADA-compliant ramps, and traffic lights. Chilekasi Adele, CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026 Change the traffic lights by adding more. Letters To The Editor, Hartford Courant, 10 Mar. 2026 The Acura ran off the side of the road and collided with a traffic light and some private property, police said. City News Service, Daily News, 9 Mar. 2026 The collision sent the truck and car into two other vehicles that were stopped at the park’s traffic light, police said. Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 5 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Traffic light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traffic%20light. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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

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