wigwag

[ wig-wag ]

verb (used with or without object)

, wig·wagged, wig·wag·ging.

1. to move to and fro.
2. Nautical. to signal by movements of two flags or the like waved according to a code.

noun

1. Nautical. the act or process of sending messages by the movements of two flags or the like waved according to a code.
2. a message so signaled.

wigwag

/ ˈwɪɡˌwæɡ /

verb

1. to move (something) back and forth
2. to communicate with (someone) by means of a flag semaphore

noun

1. 1. a system of communication by flag semaphore
   2. the message signalled

Derived Forms

• ˈwigˌwagger, noun

Other Words From

• wigwagger noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of wigwag¹

1575–85; wig to wag (now dial.) + wag; gradational compound, parallel to zigzag, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of wigwag¹

C16: from obsolete wig , probably short for wiggle + wag ¹

Example Sentences

I must see what becomes of Wigwag,' she replied to Mundus, as he called through the door that he was eating all the eggs.

From Project Gutenberg

It is more convenient for windy weather, because the flags are shorter and smaller than the flags of the three-motion wigwag.

From Project Gutenberg

The relief of the boys at the information conveyed by the wigwag signals from the shore may well be imagined.

From Project Gutenberg

When Frank related the story of the night, in his presence, he laughed and asked for the wigwag code which Frank had used.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Wells has perfected a method of signalling by means of wigwag, light, smoke, or whistle which is as simple as it is effective.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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