black-flag

1 of 2

verb

black-flagged; black-flagging; black-flags

transitive verb

: to signal (a race-car driver) to go immediately to the pits

black flag

2 of 2

noun

: a pirate's flag usually bearing a skull and crossbones

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1963, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1720, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black-flag was in 1720

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Cite this Entry

“Black-flag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black-flag. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

black flag

noun
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