Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

dome light

American  
Or domelight

noun

  1. a small light under the roof of an automobile or boat.

  2. a flashing light on the roof of an emergency vehicle, as a police car or ambulance.


Etymology

Origin of dome light

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He would stop by the Whaleys’ home when he saw a dome light left on in a car.

From Washington Post • Feb. 2, 2023

Be visible for rescuers by turning on the dome light at night or tying a bright-colored cloth – preferably red – to your antenna or door.

From Fox News • Oct. 26, 2021

The chances seemed more remote when the dome light on top of the canopy went out.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 9, 2020

You hold the first page up to the dome light and read the words from the man whose name you shall never know …

From Golf Digest • Feb. 15, 2018

When she opens the car door, the dome light makes everything too bright.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "dome light" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com