A flag word is a generic term for a word (value) used to indicate conditions within a binary computer. In particular, the byte can be used to show up to 8 discrete conditions. Essentially, each bit represents one flag, capable of showing two states.
A flag word can be seen as a bit array with a short, constant length.
Read more about Flag Word: Extracting Bits From Flag Words, Changing Bits in Flag Words
Famous quotes containing the words flag and/or word:
“—Here, the flag snaps in the glare and silence
Of the unbroken ice. I stand here,
The dogs bark, my beard is black, and I stare
At the North Pole. . .
And now what? Why, go back.
Turn as I please, my step is to the south.”
—Randall Jarrell (1914–1965)
“A word is dead
When it is said,
Some say.
I say it just
Begins to live
That day.”
—Emily Dickinson (1830–1886)