Ampel

/ˈampəl/
nounBeginner
general

A traffic light, a set of colored lights used to control traffic at intersections.

Die Ampel ist auf Grün geschaltet.

The traffic light is on green.

💡

In German, 'Ampel' is a common term for traffic lights, often used in everyday language.

Collocations

Ampel schaltet auf Grüntraffic light turns greenAmpelphasetraffic light phase

Synonyms

Related Phrases

Ampelmannphrase
a pedestrian traffic light figure in East Germany

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

'Ampel' is a neutral term for traffic lights and is used in both formal and informal contexts.

📖Word Origin

From Middle High German 'ampel', possibly from Latin 'ampulla' (flask), referring to the shape of early traffic lights.

📝Usage Notes

The term 'Ampel' is widely used in German-speaking countries and is a common word in everyday language. It can also refer to a stoplight in a broader sense.

Word Breakdown

Ampel
traffic light
root
Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch