An indicator light or illuminated signal, usually colored red, yellow, or orange, on a vehicle dashboard intended to convey a condition of which the driver should be aware. Most frequently, it indicates a system malfunction or a potentially dangerous condition (e.g., low oil pressure, high coolant temperature). It may be a word or words ("Charge"; "Check Engine") or a symbol which may or may not be readily identifiable.
The derisive term comes from the fact that such lights typically take the place of a gauge, meter or other indicator that can provide more substantive and detailed information. The binary (on/off) nature of the light is considered inferior to an indicator which provides data on the condition, but which requires some interpretive thought by the operator.)
The derisive term comes from the fact that such lights typically take the place of a gauge, meter or other indicator that can provide more substantive and detailed information. The binary (on/off) nature of the light is considered inferior to an indicator which provides data on the condition, but which requires some interpretive thought by the operator.)
"Get the manual out of the glove box so I can look-up what that idiot light that just came on means."
by Wordsquire March 19, 2014
by The Return of Light Joker March 29, 2010
The green coloured indicator on a motorcycle. Which informs the rider, they are in the "Neutral" gear, when lit.
by D. Gould January 28, 2006
Lights on the dashboard of a car indicating an action must be taken for continual operation of the vehicle; most commonly the low gas light.
by waitejo June 11, 2012
A derisive term for warning lights in a car dashboard or any similar arrangement in a vehicle's cockpit. So called because they light up when the operator is being an idiot and letting something go wrong.
by Airrider October 11, 2009
by Mara Dream June 16, 2008
by C. Michael June 16, 2008