traffic signal
Noun: A traffic signal is a visual signal, typically a set of colored lights (red, yellow/amber, green), used to control the orderly flow of vehicles and pedestrians at road intersections, crossings, or other points of potential conflict.
The term traffic signal refers to the entire signaling device. It is a standard, formal term used in transportation, law, and urban planning. - Drivers and pedestrians must obey the traffic signal. - The city is installing a new traffic signal at the busy junction. - The traffic signal malfunctioned, causing confusion.
- The traffic signal turned red, so I stopped the car.
- Wait for the walk symbol on the pedestrian traffic signal before crossing.
- Engineers timed the traffic signals along the avenue to improve traffic flow.
- As part of a system: Often used in the plural ("traffic signals") when referring to the coordinated network of such devices in an area.
- The synchronization of all downtown traffic signals has reduced commute times.
- In technical/legal contexts: Used precisely to denote the official control device, as opposed to informal terms like "light."
- The ordinance states that a steady red indication at a traffic signal requires a complete stop.
- Traffic light (n.): A very common synonym, often used in everyday conversation. ("Stop at the .")
- Stoplight (n.): Primarily North American informal term for a traffic signal. ("The is out.")
- Signal (n.): Can be used alone when the context is clear. ("The changed to green.")
- Traffic control signal: A more formal, technical variant.
- Traffic light
- Stoplight
- Signal light
- Traffic control device
(While there are few idioms with the exact phrase "traffic signal," it features in common instructional phrases.) - To run a traffic signal: To drive through an intersection when the signal is red. - He got a ticket for running a traffic signal. - To be stuck at a traffic signal: To be stopped waiting for a red light to change. - I was stuck at a traffic signal for two full cycles.
- a visual signal to control the flow of traffic at intersections