: a black flag with a white skull and crossbones formerly used by pirates as their ensign

Word History

Etymology

probably from jolly entry 1 + the name Roger

First Known Use

circa 1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Jolly Roger was circa 1785

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jolly Roger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Jolly%20Roger. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

Jolly Roger

noun
: a black flag with a white skull and crossbones formerly used by pirates
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!