WHITE FLAG Meaning and
Definition
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The term "white flag" refers to a universally recognized symbol or object used to surrender, negotiate peace, or indicate a desire to cease hostilities. It is primarily associated with military conflicts, often used when one party realizes defeat or acknowledges an inability to continue fighting. The white flag itself most commonly appears as a rectangular piece of cloth or fabric, usually white in color, affixed to a pole or staff.
The act of raising a white flag is a symbolic gesture undertaken by parties engaged in combat to communicate a desire for a peaceful resolution, truce, or an opportunity to negotiate terms of surrender. Raising the white flag is viewed as an indication of non-aggression, openness to dialogue, and willingness to comply.
The white flag holds significant importance as it acts as a safeguard for both sides, aiming to reduce casualties and facilitate a peaceful resolution to conflicts around the world. It represents a moment when adversaries may come together to reach an agreement, potentially sparing lives and resources.
By extension, the term "white flag" is also used figuratively to describe situations in which a person acknowledges defeat or surrenders, often in non-military contexts. It can imply a concession, compromise, or acceptance of a dominant position held by another party.
In summary, the concept of a "white flag" refers to a powerful symbol of surrender, peace, negotiations, and the cessation of hostilities, with applications both in military conflicts and metaphorically in other areas of life.
Common Misspellings for WHITE FLAG
- qhite flag
- ahite flag
- shite flag
- ehite flag
- 3hite flag
- 2hite flag
- wgite flag
- wbite flag
- wnite flag
- wjite flag
- wuite flag
- wyite flag
- whute flag
- whjte flag
- whkte flag
- whote flag
- wh9te flag
- wh8te flag
- whire flag
- whiteflag
Etymology of WHITE FLAG
The phrase "white flag" comes from the combination of two distinct words - "white" and "flag".
The word "white" originated from the Old English word "hwīt", which in turn is related to the Proto-Germanic word "hwītaz". This word referred to the color white or something that is light in color. Over time, "white" has retained its meaning and is commonly associated with purity, innocence, or peace.
The word "flag" originated from the Old Norse word "flaga" or the Old Saxon word "flagg", both of which referred to a piece of cloth or fabric. The term was later adopted into Old English as "fian". In general, a flag is a piece of fabric with a specific design or symbol used as a symbol of identification, communication, or signaling.
Idioms with the word WHITE FLAG
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hoist (a/the) white flag
The idiom "hoist (a/the) white flag" means to surrender or concede defeat. It originates from the practice of raising a white flag as a sign of surrender or truce in military conflicts.
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raise the white flag
The idiom "raise the white flag" means to surrender, admit defeat, or give up in a conflict or competition. It originates from the practice of waving a white flag as a sign of surrender or truce during a battle.
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show (a/the) white flag
The idiom "show a/the white flag" means to indicate surrender or defeat; to give up or admit defeat. It is often used in contexts where a person or group acknowledges their inability to continue fighting or resisting. The idiom is derived from the practice of waving a white flag as a sign of surrender during times of conflict or war.
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wave (a/the) white flag
The idiom "wave (a/the) white flag" is a metaphorical expression that means to surrender, admit defeat, or give up in a particular situation. It originates from the practice of using a white flag as a signal of surrender or truce during times of conflict or war. By waving the white flag, one is symbolically indicating their willingness to cease resistance or negotiation and accept defeat or a loss.
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white flag
A "white flag" is a symbol of surrender or submission, typically used in war to indicate that one side is willing to cease fighting and negotiate peace. This idiom can be used figuratively to describe giving up or admitting defeat in a conflict or competition.
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white flag, show the
The idiom "white flag, show the" means to surrender or give up in a conflict or struggle. It comes from the practice of waving a white flag as a signal of surrender or truce in battle.
Similar spelling words for WHITE FLAG
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