traffic light

American  

noun

1. a set of electrically operated signal lights used to direct or control traffic at intersections.

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traffic light British  

noun

1. one of a set of coloured lights placed at crossroads, junctions, etc, to control the flow of traffic. A red light indicates that traffic must stop and a green light that it may go: usually an amber warning light is added between the red and the green

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Etymology

Origin of traffic light

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

There are no traffic lights on the route and he drives swiftly through narrow streets.

From BBC

He shoved his hands in his pockets and kept his eyes on the traffic light up ahead.

From Literature

Drivers in England will be able to see how local authorities are tackling roads riddled with potholes via a new mapping tool and traffic light rating system.

From BBC

Utility companies have dug up the roads to replace old infrastructure, resulting in a patchwork of road closures and temporary traffic lights.

From BBC

Waymos, which can read traffic lights, clogged intersections because traffic lights went dark.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• red light
• stoplight
• traffic control
• yellow light