Streetlight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก
streetlight
[หstriหtหlaษชt ]
Definition
urban lighting
A streetlight is a raised light source on the edge of a road or path, typically used to illuminate streets and sidewalks at night. These lights are essential for ensuring the safety of pedestrians and drivers during dark hours, providing visibility and deterring crime.
Synonyms
lamp post, road light, street lamp.
Examples of usage
- The streetlight flickered before going out completely.
- Children played safely under the glow of the streetlight.
- During the storm, the streetlight swayed in the wind.
- He waited at the streetlight until it turned green.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The first street lights were used in ancient Rome, where torches were often lit to guide citizens at night.
- Gas lamps became popular in the early 19th century, marking a significant advancement in illumination before electric lights took over.
Technology
- Modern streetlights often use LED technology, making them more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than traditional bulbs.
- Smart streetlights are equipped with sensors and can adjust brightness based on pedestrian or traffic movement.
Safety
- Proper street lighting reduces accidents by improving visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
- A well-lit area is also associated with lower crime rates because it enhances security and deters wrongdoing.
Cultural Significance
- Streetlights often feature in art and literature as symbols of guidance and hope during dark times.
- Many cities use creatively designed streetlights as a form of urban art, adding character and uniqueness to neighborhoods.
Origin of 'streetlight'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'streetlight' combines 'street' (from the Old English 'straet') meaning a public way and 'light' (from Old English 'leoht') meaning to illuminate.
- Other words for streetlights include lampposts or lanterns, showing how language evolves in different regions.
The term 'streetlight' is a compound word formed from 'street' and 'light'. 'Street' comes from the Middle English 'strete', which in turn derived from the Old English 'strรฆฬt', signifying a paved way or road. The notion of lighting streets dates back to ancient Rome, where torches and lamps were used to illuminate pathways. The word 'light' has its origins in the Old English 'leoht', which referred to illumination or brightness. The use of artificial illumination in urban areas gained prominence in the 19th century with the advent of gas lighting, followed later by electric lighting. 'Streetlight' as a term truly took hold when communities began implementing these lights for public safety and navigation, highlighting the evolution of urban planning and infrastructure.