black flag

noun

1. a pirate flag, usually of black cloth with a white skull and crossbones on it; Jolly Roger.
2. a flag having two yellow and two black squares, signifying the letter L in the International Code of Signals: formerly so called when used by itself to indicate the presence of cholera on board a vessel.
3. a signal given to an automobile racing driver to stop, usually because the car may have a dangerous problem that requires inspection.

black flag

noun

1. another name for the Jolly Roger

Word History and Origins

Origin of black flag¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

Chapman scrambled to the officials’ stand, pleading with Chief Steward Harlan Fengler to put out a black flag for Jones, calling him to the pits.

From Los Angeles Times

The couple have hung a large black flag from their veranda, in solidarity with the hostages - 19 of them from Kfar Aza.

From BBC

A black flag over Iran’s Imam Reza shrine isn’t a war cry.

From Seattle Times

By Sunday morning, a “black flag” warning was issued, prompting the event’s cancellation.

From Seattle Times

As the match against Chicago picked up momentum, one group energetically waved black flags with pink roses and banners advocating LGBTQ+ rights.

From Los Angeles Times