Search results for 'flag':

flag¹ noun 1 a piece of cloth, usually rectangular in shape, with a distinctive design, flown from a pole to represent a country, political party, etc, or used for signalling. 2 national identity represented by a flag. 3 any kind of marker used to indicate and draw special attention to something, eg a code placed at a particular position in a computer program, a paper marker pinned onto a map, etc. 4 obsolete an adjustable plate in a taxi, raised to show that the taxi is for hire. verb (flagged, flagging) 1 to mark something with a flag, tag or symbol. 2 to signal (a message) using flags. dip the flag to lower a flag and then hoist it again as a token of respect. fly the flag or keep the flag flying to maintain a show of support for one's country or other affiliation. lower the flag to indicate surrender, relinquishment of command or respect, etc • The flag was finally lowered on the Empire. with flags flying with flying colours; triumphantly.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c.

flag² verb (flagged, flagging) intrans to grow weak or tired after a period of intense work or activity.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c: probably derived from flap, in the sense of 'hang down' or 'droop'.

flag³ noun 1 (also flagstone) a large flat stone for paving. 2 a flat slab of any fine-grained rock which can be split into flagstones. verb (flagged, flagging) to pave (a floor, street, etc) with flagstones.
ETYMOLOGY: 15c: from Norse flaga slab.

flag⁴ noun any of several plants of the iris family, with long blade-like leaves, especially those with yellow flowers.
ETYMOLOGY: 14c.