The traffic light
Example: The traffic light turns red at the crossing
Definition
"The traffic light" is a signaling device positioned at road intersections or pedestrian crossings that uses colored lights—typically red, yellow, and green—to control vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow and ensure safety by indicating when to stop, prepare, or go.
Etymology
The term "the traffic light" comes from the combination of "traffic," referring to the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, and "light," indicating the colored signal. The first electric traffic light was installed in the early 20th century, evolving from earlier gas-lit signals to improve road safety. Did you know that the concept was inspired by railway signals?
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"The traffic light" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (A1) - set 2", containing 103 commonly used words.
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