negative flag

noun

1. the letter N in the International Code of Signals, signifying “no” when flown by itself: a square flag having four rows of alternate blue and white squares.

Word History and Origins

Origin of negative flag¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Cressy to the St. George by signal, "Shall I take you in tow?" answered with the negative flag: observed one of her rudder guys gone, and the people repairing it.

From Project Gutenberg