HALF-MAST Definition & Meaning

half-mast

[ haf-mast, hahf-mahst ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

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

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

half-mast

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

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First recorded in 1620–30

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How does half-mast compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

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Examples have not been reviewed.

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

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Flags around Orebro and at government buildings, parliament and royal palaces across the country were also lowered to half-mast.

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The solemnity echoing the national mood as flags fly at half-mast.

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Flags on government buildings, parliament and the royal palaces will fly at half-mast on Wednesday, the prime minister's press office said.

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Flags are flying at half-mast across Turkey in memory of the victims of the fire, while the first funerals are being held.

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