This informal name refers to the flashing amber or red lamps at the corners of a vehicle used to signal a lane change or turn. The term derives from the rhythmic on-and-off blinking action of the light circuit. It is frequently used in British, Japanese, and some older American shop environments when discussing the flasher relay or the external bulbs.
Heard on the job
Check the left front winker, the customer says it's hyper-flashing when they hit the brakes.
Also heard as
- Blinker
- Indicator
- Turn signal
Related terms
Turn signal
The flashing exterior lights used to indicate a lane change or directional turn.
Indicator
The flashing amber light on a vehicle used to signal a turn or lane change.
Flasher
The electrical relay or module that makes a vehicle's turn signals blink.
Trafficator
A historic mechanical turn signal that flips out from the side of a vehicle.