Phrase guide

flag down

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

Use a flag or similar kind of signal to get someone's attention.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, transitive

Examples

  • Near-synonyms: hail, signal
  • If you want a taxi in Central London, you'll have to stand in the road and flag one down.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: hail, signal

Antonyms: wave off, wave away

2

verb

Meaning 2

signal to stop

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • Let's flag down a cab--it's starting to rain
  • The policeman flagged down our car

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: stop

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

2 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Chinese: 拦 (lán) — use a signal to get someone's attention
  • French: se manifester — use a signal to get someone's attention