idiot light


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idiot light

n. Slang
A light on the instrument panel of a motor vehicle that gives forewarning, as of an overheated engine.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend:
Noun1.idiot light - a colored warning light on an instrument panel (as for low oil pressure)
control board, control panel, instrument panel, board, panel - electrical device consisting of a flat insulated surface that contains switches and dials and meters for controlling other electrical devices; "he checked the instrument panel"; "suddenly the board lit up like a Christmas tree"
red light, warning light - a cautionary sign of danger
Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.
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References in periodicals archive ?
Put an "idiot light" on the control panel that tells you if the amps drawn by the heater are to specification.
Bozzelli's dozen drying tips
I'm sure you've all taken the car to the shop only to have the rattle disappear or the idiot light to go off on its own.
S&W lock hysteria
So, which do I trust, the dipstick level or the idiot light? Thanks.
Doubt the light, never the dipstick

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