green light

noun

: authority or permission to proceed
green-light transitive verb

Examples of green light in a Sentence

we were given the green light to use the town commons for our fund-raiser
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The production team augments the cast’s over-the-top performances with floor-to-ceiling tentacles (set designer Lindsay Mummert), bursts of green light from the heat rays (lighting designer Sarah Riffle) and warbling sound effects that evoke a 1950s sci-fi film (sound designer Joe Griffin). Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 3 June 2025 Senators from both parties are itching to move a bill to impose harsh sanctions on Russia but GOP leaders are waiting for Trump’s green light. The Hill Staff, The Hill, 3 June 2025 The first quarter moon in your sign on June 2 serves as your personal green light to realign, refresh and possibly even rebrand. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 June 2025 But Paramount Global is seeking Trump administration approval for its merger with Skydance Media, and a settlement of the lawsuit is viewed as a way to secure a green light for the transaction. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for green light

Word History

Etymology

from the green traffic light which signals permission to proceed

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of green light was in 1937

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Green light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/green%20light. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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