Flag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
flag
[flaษก ]
Definitions
nationality
A piece of cloth or similar material, typically oblong or square, attachable by one edge to a pole or rope and used as the symbol or emblem of a country or institution.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flag |
Use when referring to a piece of fabric, usually rectangular, with distinctive colors and designs, used as a symbol of a country, organization, or signal.
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| banner |
Use for a long strip of cloth or paper, often with words or symbols, displayed as a sign or decoration, especially during events or protests.
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| ensign |
Typically used in a military or naval context to refer to a flag that indicates nationality or affiliation of ships.
|
| standard |
Often used when referring to a flag or emblem, traditionally carried on a pole, representing royalty, leaders, or military units, more formal and historical in use.
|
Examples of usage
- The flag of the United States has fifty stars and thirteen stripes.
- During the Olympics, athletes proudly wave their national flags.
- The flag was raised at half-mast as a sign of mourning.
signal
Mark (an item) for attention or treatment in a specified way.
Synonyms
highlight, indicate, point out.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flag |
When you want to mark something for future attention or indicate a potential problem. Commonly used in technical or problem-solving contexts.
|
| highlight |
When you want to draw attention to important information or emphasize key points. Often used in presentations, reports, and discussions.
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| indicate |
When you want to show, point out, or provide a sign or signal about something. It can be used in both everyday conversations and formal contexts.
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| point out |
When you want to draw someone's attention to something specific, often as a correction or important observation. Frequently used in informal conversations or discussions.
|
Examples of usage
- Please flag any issues you encounter during the project.
- The team leader flagged the important points for further discussion.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Flags have been used since ancient times, with the earliest known flags dating back to the 3rd century BC in China.
- The use of flags in warfare began during the Middle Ages to help armies identify friend from foe on the battlefield.
- The word 'flag' comes from an Old Germanic word meaning 'to flutter', which describes how it moves in the wind.
Cultural Significance
- Different colors and designs on a flag can represent different meanings, like peace, strength, or historical events.
- In some cultures, flags are used during ceremonies, such as weddings or funerals, to honor the deceased or celebrate a union.
- The rainbow flag is widely recognized as a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and diversity.
Science and Nature
- The movement of flags in the wind can be studied for aerodynamics, illustrating the principles of lift and drag.
- Some flags are designed to be highly visible, using bright colors that can be seen from a distance, especially in emergencies.
- The study of how materials behave under various weather conditions helps in creating durable and weather-resistant flags.
Pop Culture
- Flags play a significant role in sports, such as the international flags used during the Olympics to represent participating nations.
- In movies and television, flags often symbolize loyalty or betrayal, and can be powerful visual storytelling tools.
- The phrase 'flagging a ride' comes from the practice of waving a small flag to signal a vehicle to stop for a passenger.
Psychology
- Flags can evoke strong emotions, often connected to feelings of nationalism or pride in one's community.
- Color psychology shows that specific colors on a flag can influence perceptions and feelings; for example, red can evoke passion and energy.
- Displaying a flag in oneโs home can create a sense of belonging and identity within one's community or nation.
Origin of 'flag'
The word 'flag' originated from the Old Norse word 'flaga', meaning cloth, slab, or streamer. Flags have been used for thousands of years as a way to identify groups, countries, or institutions. The use of flags in warfare dates back to ancient times, where they were used to signal troops or confuse enemies. Over time, flags have become powerful symbols of identity and pride.
See also: flageolet, flagon, flags, flagstone, unflagging.