HALF-MAST Definition & Meaning

half-mast

[haf-mast, hahf-mahst]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a position approximately halfway between the top of a mast, staff, etc., and its base.

verb (used with object)

to place (a flag) at half-mast, as a mark of respect for the dead or as a signal of distress.

half-mast

noun

the lower than normal position to which a flag is lowered on a mast as a sign of mourning or distress

verb

(tr) to put (a flag) in this position

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of half-mast¹

First recorded in 1620–30

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Flags have been at half-mast at royal residences and the black armbands will add another sign of respect, with the King having said he was "desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad".

From

The Austrian flag has been lowered to half-mast on all public buildings.

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The birds flew as a group, circling the shade canopy and modest makeshift podium, the American flag at half-mast, snapping furiously in the wind.

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Oxford City Council has lowered the city's flag, flying over Oxford Town Hall, to half-mast in tribute.

From

There’s no one like this kewpie triple threat, and even at half-mast she was able to summon some of the old magic.

From

half-marathon half measure

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