1782 J. Yeo I. iii. 188 I hung the remains of my turban upon a towering pole, which we had erected as a signal staff.
1898 G. Parker xxxv Not far from her was the signal-staff which telegraphed to another signal-staff inland. Upon the staff now was hoisted a red flag.
1992 J. Buffett 23 I dropped below Morro Castle, with its aged towers, modern signal staffs, and black cannons.