blue peter

/'blu:'pi:tə/
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blue peter

The ship hoists the blue peter as it prepares to depart.

Definition

Noun: A specific maritime signal flag, blue with a white square in its center, flown by a vessel to indicate it is ready to depart from port.

Usage

The term "Blue Peter" is used exclusively in nautical contexts. It is a visual signal for port authorities, other ships, and crew members that the vessel's departure is imminent. It is hoisted shortly before sailing.

Examples
  • The ship raised the Blue Peter at 0600 hours, signaling its imminent departure.
  • Look for the Blue Peter on the mast; it means they are ready to set sail.
  • According to maritime tradition, the Blue Peter is flown when all passengers are aboard and cargo is secured.
Advanced Usage
  • "To fly the Blue Peter": This is the standard phrase for displaying the flag.
    • The captain gave the order to fly the Blue Peter.
  • The flag is part of the International Code of Signals. Its specific meaning ("I am about to sail") is universally recognized in maritime communication.
Variants and Related Words
  • Departure signal: A general term for any signal indicating a vessel's readiness to leave port.
  • Code flag "P": In the International Code of Signals, the phonetic name for the flag design (blue with a white center) is "Papa," but its meaning when used alone is "Blue Peter" (All persons should report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea).
Synonyms
  • Sailing signal
  • Departure flag
Notes on Meaning
  • The term refers strictly to the flag itself and its specific nautical meaning. It is not used metaphorically in general English.
  • Its name is believed to derive from the French "" (blue) and "" (to depart), or possibly from a corruption of "Blue Repeater," an older naval term.
blue peter

The ship hoists the blue peter as it prepares to depart.

Noun
  1. a blue flag with a white square in the center indicates that the vessel is ready to sail