stoplight

noun

stop·​light ˈstäp-ˌlīt How to pronounce stoplight (audio)
1
: a light on the rear of a motor vehicle that is illuminated when the driver presses the brake pedal
2

Examples of stoplight 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 Wyman Hotel In Silverton, which has no stoplights and only one paved road, The Wyman Hotel offers a glimpse of local history. Alex Schechter, Travel + Leisure, 22 Dec. 2025 Stolen cargo off the backs of trucks, awaiting loading, being purposely sent to the wrong location, or being ambushed at stoplights leads to higher insurance costs for shippers and higher expenses for companies moving their products, according to Spear. Anna Giaritelli, The Washington Examiner, 17 Dec. 2025 Along the North End’s largest street, Harrison Boulevard, there are no stoplights or stop signs, and there is one pedestrian crossing light at Lemp Street. Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 11 Dec. 2025 The woman told investigators Herzing had made similar threats in July, which resulted in the victim suffering minor scrapes after dismounting at a stoplight. Lauren Breunig, Twin Cities, 2 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stoplight

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stoplight was in 1926

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stoplight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stoplight. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

stoplight

noun
stop·​light ˈstäp-ˌlīt How to pronounce stoplight (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on stoplight

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