This is the 974th most frequent German word.
ampel
Traffic light.
'Ampel' refers to a traffic light in this context, used in a sentence about its functionality.
Die Ampel zeigt Rot, wir müssen warten.
The traffic light is red, we have to wait.
'Ampel' is used metaphorically to indicate a signal or approval for proceeding.
Die Ampel für die Investitionen steht auf Grün, wir können mit dem Projekt beginnen.
The green light for the investments is on, we can start the project.
'Ampel' is used in a compound noun to refer to a specific type of political coalition by analogy to the colors of a traffic light.