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 Ada County Highway District plans an unrelated project starting in early 2027 to widen sidewalks, replace traffic signals and narrow lanes between Overland and Rose Hill Street. Idaho Statesman, 13 May 2026 The $10 million project would replace the aging traffic signal infrastructure at intersections on state routes 218 and 187, according to the Department of Transportation. Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026 Photos shared by firefighters showed the motorcycle dangling by its front wheel from the traffic signal pole following the crash, and onlookers who spoke with CBC shared their shock at the scene. Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 11 May 2026 Smith said Charlotte already implemented many lower-cost engineering fixes, including LED traffic signals and signal timing adjustments, leaving driver behavior as a major remaining challenge. Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 11 May 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Traffic signal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traffic%20signal. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

traffic signal

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

More from Merriam-Webster on traffic signal

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster