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half–mast

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noun \ˈhaf-ˈmast, ˈhäf-\

Definition of half–mast

  1. :  a point some distance but not necessarily halfway down below the top of a mast or staff or the peak of a gaff

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First Known Use of half–mast

1588

2

half–mast

verb

Definition of half–mast

  1. transitive verb

  2. :  to cause to hang at half-mast half–mast a flag

First Known Use of half–mast

1891

HALF–MAST Defined for English Language Learners

half-mast

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noun

Definition of half–mast for English Language Learners

  • : the position in the middle of a mast or pole

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to fight against or to call in question

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