traffic cop

American  

noun

Informal.

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

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traffic cop British  

noun

1. informal a policeman who supervises road traffic

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Etymology

Origin of traffic cop

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

Daniels often operates like a traffic cop at the top of the high post while directing the offense.

From Seattle Times

Overstay by one second the two-minute curbside limit, and traffic cops were empowered “to arrest and take to the police station all persons who violate the new law.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Olympics primetime host is a mix of story teller, traffic cop going from one event to the other and master interviewer.

From Seattle Times

Its leader Vissarion used to be a traffic cop but now believes he is the second coming of Jesus Christ.

From BBC

Portland Chief Chuck Lovell recently announced that all K-9 officers, as well as the majority of traffic cops, will be moved to respond to 911 calls.

From Fox News