Definition

Noun: 1. A setting of a vehicle's headlights that directs light downward and to the right (in right-hand traffic countries), providing adequate illumination for driving at night without blinding oncoming drivers. This is the standard setting for headlights when other vehicles are present.

Usage

The term "low beam" is used to specify the headlight setting for normal night driving conditions, especially when there is oncoming traffic or when driving behind another vehicle. It is often contrasted with "high beam."

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please switch to low beam; you're blinding the driver in front of us.
  • The law requires you to use low beams within city limits.
  • My car's low beams are not very bright; I should replace the bulbs.

Advanced Usage

• "On low beam": Describes the state of the headlights being set to this mode.
  • Drive with your headlights on low beam in this fog.

Variants and Related Words

• Low beams (plural noun): The common way to refer to the headlights in this setting.
• Dipped beam (noun, chiefly British English): A synonym for "low beam."
• High beam (noun): The opposing setting that provides maximum forward illumination for dark, open roads.

Synonyms

• Dipped headlights
• Passing beam
• Meeting beam

Antonyms

• High beam
• Main beam
• Brights

Noun

1. the beam of a car's headlights that provides illumination for a short distance