red - light district Definition, Meaning & SynonymsAn area of a city where prostitution and other vice activities are concentrated. The meaning of RED-LIGHT is relating to or being an area with many brothels or sex workers. How to use red-light in a sentence. What Is a Red Light District in Japan? The Meaning Behind “ Red Light District ” A “ red light district ” refers to a specific urban area where adult entertainment and sexual services are widely available and legally tolerated or unofficially permitted. The term originates from the red lanterns historically used in many countries, including parts of Europe, to signal the presence of a brothel. In Japan, red light districts can vary significantly in atmosphere and style but generally ... The meaning of RED- LIGHT DISTRICT is a district in which houses of prostitution are frequent.