half-staff

[ haf-staf, hahf-stahf ]

noun

1. half-mast.

Word History and Origins

Origin of half-staff¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

But to me, you see, it meant also that my son was being buried under a flag that was at half-staff too.

From The Daily Beast

The flag this morning flies at half-staff in front of Engine Company 224 in Brooklyn.

From The Daily Beast

The flags on the White House and other Government buildings throughout the country were at half-staff.

From Project Gutenberg

In raising a flag to half-mast or half-staff, it should be run to the top of the pole, and then lowered the width of the flag.

From Project Gutenberg

The national flag will be displayed at half-staff from the time of the receipt of this order until the close of the funeral.

From Project Gutenberg

The national flag will be displayed at half-staff during the same time.

From Project Gutenberg

When the flag is flown at half staff as a sign of mourning it should be hoisted to full staff at the conclusion of the funeral.

From Project Gutenberg