noun
ensign
A flag flown to show nationality or affiliation.
The ship flies a national ensign from a staff at the stern.
Etymology
Latin insigne names a distinguishing mark. A flag functions as such a mark for a ship, unit, or organization, displaying its nationality or affiliation.
More examples
- They lowered the ensign at sunset.
- Several naval ensigns appeared in the display.
- The damaged ensign was replaced before departure.
Forms
ensign · ensigns