red-flagged; red-flagging; red-flags
: to identify or draw attention to (a problem or issue to be dealt with)
Those who voice the most displeasure in their marriage, are more likely to complain about their partner's weight, Newport adds, which may help counselors red-flag weakening relationships before it's too late.—Matthew J. Cravatta
Drug testing, detailed questions about previous employment history, and criminal-record checks go a long way toward red-flagging risks.—Anne Fisher
We met, we got along great, and I [Spike Lee] told her, "Not only do I want you to work with the actors, but I want you to look at this script. I am a man, and I know there's going to be stuff in there that's strictly from a male viewpoint—I want you to red-flag that stuff."—Anne Stockwell
plural red flags
: a warning signal or sign
A high body-mass index is a red flag in general to clinicians. But sudden, unexplained weight loss can be even more worrisome.—Melinda Beck
: something that indicates or draws attention to a problem, danger, or irregularity
Interested large investors often send in their own CPAs to conduct complete audits to verify statements or to spot red flags, such as excessively old inventory or uncollectible accounts receivable.—Inc.
Whether you're dating a potential gold digger or are surrounded by friends who are constantly asking for handouts, you'll want to protect your money from those kinds of drains. Watch out for red flags such as dishonesty, secrecy around money matters and requests to co-sign a loan.—Kimberly Palmer
The sham citations … immediately raised red flags [=aroused suspicions of wrongdoing] for those familiar with the local parking schedule.—Nathan Solis
see also red flag law
Cite this Entry
“Red-flag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red-flag. Accessed 12 Nov. 2026.
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