traffic cop

noun

, Informal.

1. a police officer who directs the flow of traffic, usually at an intersection.

traffic cop

noun

1. informal.
   a policeman who supervises road traffic

Word History and Origins

Origin of traffic cop¹

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

While he pointed out he’s “not a traffic cop,” Zalatoris believes “there’s got to be an easier way to do this.”

From Seattle Times

Trump's chief of staff, Mark Meadows, took on the role of traffic cop, managing many of the various conspirators as they worked their own angles.

From Salon

“He was a traffic cop tonight,” Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux said.

From Seattle Times

That’s why speakers are supposed to be traffic cops, not ideological firebrands.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, the American news media has decided to play referee or alternatively to behave like a traffic cop who does not intervene to stop the crimes he or she is witnessing.

From Salon