nounmasculinepl: semaphores
semáforo
1. A system of signaling using flags, lights, or mechanical arms to communicate messages over a distance, especially at sea
The sailors used semaphore to communicate between ships.
Os marinheiros usavam semáforo para se comunicar entre navios.
2. A traffic control device using colored lights or signals to direct vehicle and pedestrian movement at intersections
Stop at the red light of the semaphore before crossing the street.
Pare na luz vermelha do semáforo antes de atravessar a rua.
3. In computing, a variable or abstract data type used to control access to a shared resource
The programmer used a semaphore to prevent race conditions in the multi-threaded application.
O programador usou um semáforo para evitar condições de corrida na aplicação multi-thread.
In Brazil, 'semáforo' is ubiquitous in urban environments and is the standard term for traffic lights at intersections. The word is also used metaphorically in business and everyday language to indicate approval (green light/luz verde) or caution (red light/luz vermelha). In maritime and naval contexts, the historical semaphore flag system is less commonly used but still recognized in technical and military circles.
Related Idioms & Phrases
green light (semáforo verde) - approval or permission to proceed
red light (semáforo vermelho) - warning or prohibition
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