[haf-mast, hahf-mahst] 
| 1. | a position approximately halfway between the top of a mast, staff, etc., and its base. |
| 2. | to place (a flag) at half-mast, as a mark of respect for the dead or as a signal of distress. |
| half-mast (hāf'māst', häf'mäst') n. The position about halfway up a mast or pole at which a flag is flown as a symbol of mourning for the dead or as a signal of distress. Also called half-staff. tr.v. half-mast·ed, half-mast·ing, half-masts To place (a flag) halfway up a mast or pole. |