keep the flag flying Definition

flag¹
noun

1. A piece of cloth, usually rectangular in shape, with a distinctive design, flown from a pole to represent a country, political party, etc, or used for signalling.

Thesaurus: banner, pennant, standard, streamer, colours, emblem, ensign.
2. National identity represented by a flag.
3. Any kind of marker used to indicate and draw special attention to something, eg a code placed at a particular position in a computer program, a paper marker pinned onto a map, etc.
4. obsolete
An adjustable plate in a taxi, raised to show that the taxi is for hire.

verb flagged, flagging

1. To mark something with a flag, tag or symbol.
2. To signal (a message) using flags.

Idiom: dip the flag

To lower a flag and then hoist it again as a token of respect.

Idiom: fly the flag (keep the flag flying)

To maintain a show of support for one's country or other affiliation.

Idiom: lower the flag

To indicate surrender, relinquishment of command or respect, etc.
Example: The flag was finally lowered on the Empire

Idiom: with flags flying

With flying colours; triumphantly.

Etymology: 16c.

Phrasal Verb: flag someone or something down

To signal, usually with a hand, to a vehicle or driver to stop.
Example: The police flagged us down