“Jolly Roger” means a pirate flag, especially the black flag with a skull and crossbones. It was used to identify a pirate ship and to warn targets that an attack was coming.

Quick Scoop

The phrase is most closely linked to piracy in the early 18th century, during the Golden Age of Piracy.

Its name may come from either the French phrase joli rouge (“pretty red”) or from “Old Roger,” an old name for the devil or death.

Why it mattered

Pirates used the Jolly Roger as a psychological weapon: seeing it often meant surrender or fear of attack.

Not every pirate flag looked the same, but the Jolly Roger became the classic symbol people now associate with pirates.

In short

  • Meaning: pirate flag.
  • Common design: skull and crossbones on black.
  • Purpose: intimidation and warning.