Definition

Noun: A blinking light on a motor vehicle that indicates the direction in which the vehicle is about to turn. It is a safety device used to communicate a driver's intention to change lanes or make a turn to other road users.

Usage

The term "turn signal" is used to refer to the device itself or its function. It is a countable noun. * Always use your turn signal before changing lanes. * The driver's left turn signal was flashing. * My car has an automatic turn signal cancel feature.

Examples

• The law requires you to activate your turn signal at least 100 feet before turning.
• I could see his turn signal blinking in the rain.
• One of the most common driving mistakes is forgetting to use a turn signal.

Advanced Usage

• "To signal" or "to use a turn signal": The verb form describing the action of activating the device.
  • You must signal before you merge.
  • Did the driver use a turn signal?
• In automotive contexts, the component may be referred to technically as a "turn signal lamp" or "turn signal assembly".

Variants and Related Words

• Blinker (noun): An informal synonym for "turn signal," commonly used in everyday speech.
  • Put on your blinker.
• Indicator (noun): The standard term used in British English.
  • Check your indicators during the vehicle safety inspection.
• Directional (noun): A less common, older synonym occasionally used in American English.
• Turn signal lever / stalk (noun phrase): The control stalk, usually on the steering column, used to activate the turn signals.
  • The turn signal stalk also controls the high beams.

Synonyms

• Blinker
• Indicator (chiefly British English)
• Directional signal
• Trafficator (archaic)

Related Phrases

• "To put on your turn signal": To activate the turn signal.
  • He put on his turn signal and moved into the right lane.
• "Turn signal is on": Indicates the light is currently blinking.
  • Your turn signal is still on from the last turn.
• "Hazard lights" or "hazard warning signals": Refers to when all four turn signals flash simultaneously to indicate a stationary vehicle or a hazard. This is a related but distinct function.
  • She turned on her hazard lights because the car had broken down.

Noun

1. a blinking light on a motor vehicle that indicates the direction in which the vehicle is about to turn