Meaning & Definition of word "Flag"

Flag

/flæɡ/

noun:

  • 1. A piece of cloth or other material, typically rectangular and attached by one edge to a pole or rope, used as a symbol or signal.
    • Example: The country raised its national flag in celebration of independence.
  • 2. A signal for attention or warning, especially in a specific context such as sports or maritime.
    • Example: The referee waved a red flag to indicate a foul play.
  • 3. A symbol or emblem representing a specific organization or cause.
    • Example: The rainbow flag is a symbol of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

verb:

  • 1. To mark something for attention or as a warning.
    • Example: They decided to flag the suspicious email for further review.
  • 2. To lower (a flag) as a sign of respect or surrender.
    • Example: The ship's crew was ordered to flag the colors to show adherence to the maritime tradition.
  • 3. To signal or indicate something.
    • Example: The assistant waved her hand to flag the taxi.

Etymology

Middle English flagge, from Old Norse flǫgg

Common Phrases and Expressions

flag down:

To signal a vehicle to stop.

raise the flag:

To announce or declare something.

flag on the play:

A penalty in sports, especially football.

Related Words

bunting:

Lightweight fabric banner, often used for decoration.

signal:

A gesture, action, or sound that conveys information.

standard:

A flag or banner, especially one representing a military unit.

Slang Meanings of flag

Meaning: To flag something means to report it or draw attention to it.

Example Sentence: If you see something suspicious, flag it immediately.

Meaning: To lose energy or enthusiasm.

Example Sentence: After hours of work, I started to flag and needed a break.