black flag

American  

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 British  

noun

1. another name for the Jolly Roger

---

Etymology

Origin of black flag

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

An AFP journalist at the northern Islam Qala border crossing saw the Iranian flag completely lowered, and a black flag raised.

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

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 • Jun. 5, 2024

The red, white and black flag was placed on the sidewalk and can be seen in footage posted by Fox 5.

From Washington Times • May 23, 2023

Defensive co-captain Cam Heyward carried a massive black flag with No. 32 on it during pregame introductions.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 24, 2022

Desperate to escape him, I entered the next building I came across—the Krupp Pavilion, a fortresslike structure whose tower was adorned with decorative eagles and the red, white and black flag of the German Empire.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros