Headlight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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headlight
[ˈhɛdˌlaɪt ]
Definition
automobile lighting
A headlight is a powerful light located at the front of a vehicle, designed to illuminate the road ahead during nighttime or in poor visibility conditions. Headlights are essential for safe driving, as they allow drivers to see and be seen by others. These lights can be halogen, LED, or xenon, each offering different brightness levels and energy efficiencies. Additionally, headlights can often be adjusted in angle to accommodate changes in load and improve visibility.
Synonyms
auto light, front light, vehicle light.
Examples of usage
- She turned on the headlights to see the road better.
- The car's headlights flickered before going out.
- Headlights can be set to high beam for better distance visibility.
- Police cars usually have flashing headlights to alert other drivers.
Translations
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Origin of 'headlight'
The term 'headlight' traces its origins to the English language, combining 'head' and 'light'. The word 'head' refers to the front part of something, while 'light' relates to illumination. The use of structured lighting on vehicles emerged in the late 19th century as automobiles became more popular. Early models utilized oil lamps that were mounted at the front. As technology advanced, electric headlights were introduced in the early 20th century, providing significantly brighter illumination compared to their predecessors. Different types of headlights, including halogen and later LED models, have since been developed, improving safety and efficiency. Over time, the design and functionality of headlights have also evolved to include features like automatic dimming and adaptive lighting systems, responding to the driving environment to enhance safety further.