ensign — a flag or banner, especially a military or naval one
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a flag or banner, especially a military or naval one
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈensaɪn/
Example Sentences
- The captain ordered the ensign to be lowered to half-mast
- Ensign Park was so new that he saluted his own reflection in the mirror
- Each country's Olympic team marched behind their national ensign
ensign
NOUN[/ˈensaɪn/]
a flag or banner, especially a military or naval one

a uniformed naval officer carefully unfolds a large national flag with ceremonial precision. The officer raises the flag high above his head as it catches the ocean breeze. The flag begins to wave proudly as it's attached to the ship's flagpole. Other crew members stand at attention in respectful formation watching the ceremony. The captain salutes as the flag reaches the top of the mast. a flag or banner being displayed in military tradition.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From 14th century Old French 'enseigne' meaning 'sign' or 'signal', originally referring to a military flag or banner. The meaning evolved from the flag itself to the person carrying it, and eventually to a low-ranking naval officer.
Breakdown
en- (prefix meaning 'in' or 'on') + sign (from Latin 'signum' meaning mark or token) + -e (French noun ending)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The captain ordered the ensign to be lowered to half-mast”
“Ensign Park was so new that he saluted his own reflection in the mirror”
“Each country's Olympic team marched behind their national ensign”
“The pirate ship flew a black ensign with a skull and crossbones”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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