Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FLAG, n.³ [G. flagge; D. vlag, vlagge; Dan. flag; Sw. flagg; allied probably to the preceding word, in the sense of bending or spreading.]

An ensign or colors; a cloth on which are usually painted or wrought certain figures, and borne on a staff. In the army, a banner by which one regiment is distinguished from another. In the marine, a banner or standard by which the ships of one nation are distinguished from those of another, or by which an admiral is distinguished from other ships of his squadron. In the British navy, an admiral's flag is displayed at the main-top-gallant-mast-head, a vice-admiral's at the fore-top-gallant-mast-head, and a rear-admiral's at the mizzen-top-gallant-mast-head. To strike or lower the flag, is to pull it down upon the cap in token of respect or submission. To strike the flag in an engagement, is the sign of surrendering. To hang out the white flag, is to ask quarter; or in some cases, to manifest a friendly design. The red flag, is a sign of defiance or battle. To hang the flag half mast high, is a token or signal of mourning. Flag-officer, an admiral; the commander of a squadron. Flag-ship, the ship which bears the admiral, and in which his flag is displayed. Flag-staff, staff that elevates the flag. Encyc. Mar. Dict.