What is "flag of truce"

Truce \Truce\, n. [OE. trewes, triwes, treowes, pl. of trewe a truce, properly, pledge of fidelity, truth, AS. tre['o]w fidelity, faith, troth. See True.]

1. (Mil.) A suspension of arms by agreement of the commanders of opposing forces; a temporary cessation of hostilities, for negotiation or other purpose; an armistice.

2. Hence, intermission of action, pain, or contest; temporary cessation; short quiet.

   Where he may likeliest find Truce to his restless thoughts.
   --Milton.

   Flag of truce (Mil.), a white flag carried or exhibited by one of the hostile parties, during the flying of which hostilities are suspended.

   Truce of God, a suspension of arms promulgated by the church, which occasionally took place in the Middle Ages, putting a stop to private hostilities at or within certain periods.

n. flag consisting of a piece of white cloth that is hoisted to signal surrender or to ask for a truce [syn: white flag]