flag crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate guide to solving the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "flag crossword clue," categorized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "flag crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SIGN: A flag often serves as a visual sign or symbol.
WAVE: The common motion of a flag in the wind, or to wave a flag.
6 Letters
ENSIGN: A national flag, especially a naval or military one.
SIGNAL: To flag something down means to signal for attention or to stop.
6 Letters
BANNER: A type of flag, often used in parades or for advertising purposes.
8 Letters
STANDARD: Another term for a flag, particularly a military or ceremonial one.
9 Letters
INDICATOR: Something that flags or points out, serving as a sign or pointer.
More About "flag crossword clue"
The clue "flag" is a crossword setter's favorite due to its rich polysemy – it has multiple distinct meanings. In its most common noun form, a flag is a piece of fabric used as a symbol, signal, or decoration (e.g., a national flag, a checkered flag in racing). This leads to answers like BANNER, ENSIGN, or STANDARD. However, "flag" can also be a verb, meaning to mark something for attention (to flag a page), to signal someone to stop (to flag down a taxi), or to decline in strength or enthusiasm (energy begins to flag). These verb meanings open up answers such as SIGNAL, HALT, or even DROOP or WEAKEN.
Another, less common, meaning refers to a type of plant, specifically a 'flag iris'. Understanding these different contexts is crucial when tackling "flag" in a crossword. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to narrow down which meaning the clue setter intends. Its versatility makes it a constant source of both frustration and satisfaction for crossword solvers!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "flag," always brainstorm all possible meanings (noun, verb, even obscure ones) before committing to an answer.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most important hint. It immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows down the meaning.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. If an 'S' appears as the third letter, you know your answer must fit that pattern.
- Think Synonyms: Crosswords often use synonyms. For "flag," think of words that mean 'banner,' 'signal,' or 'decline.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'flag' have so many different crossword answers?
The word 'flag' is a classic crossword clue because of its multiple meanings. It can refer to a piece of cloth (like a banner or ensign), a type of plant (like an iris), or a verb meaning to signal (as in 'flag down') or to grow weak (as in 'energy flags'). This versatility allows setters to use it for a wide range of answers depending on the intended meaning and letter count.
How do I know which meaning of 'flag' is intended in a crossword?
Context is key! Look at other solved letters in the grid to determine the length of the answer. Also, check for any connecting clues or theme hints. If the clue implies a noun, answers like BANNER or ENSIGN are likely. If it's a verb, SIGNAL or DROOP might fit. Sometimes, the setter provides a cryptic hint or a synonym in the clue itself.
Are there common synonyms for 'flag' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms for 'flag' used in crosswords include BANNER, STANDARD, ENSIGN, PENNON, BURGEE (for the cloth item). For the verb 'to flag', you might see SIGNAL, HALT, MARK, or DECLINE, DROOP, WEAKEN. For the plant, IRIS is common. Always consider all potential meanings before settling on an answer.