Ensign — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈen(t)-sən/ en·sign

Meaning & Definition of Ensign

Ensign (noun)

  1. a flag that is flown (as by a ship) as the symbol of nationality and that may also be flown with a distinctive badge added to its design
  2. a badge of office, rank, or power
  3. emblem, sign

Ensign (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a device, design, or figure used as an identifying mark

    "that ensign of tutorial authority, the hickory stick"

    similar: emblem, hallmark, impresa, logo, symbol, totem, trademark
    related: attribute, icon, pictograph, logogram, logograph, badge, coat of arms, cognizance, crest, insignia, monogram, colophon, stamp, token

  2. a piece of cloth with a special design that is used as an emblem or for signaling

    "fittingly, the organization promoting the welfare of marine life features a dolphin on its ensign"

    similar: banderole, banner, colors, flag, guidon, jack, pendant (chiefly British), pennant, pennon, standard, streamer
    related: bunting, gonfalon, black flag, Jolly Roger, tricolor, union jack, white flag, burgee, semaphore, signaler, waft, badge, coat of arms, crest, insignia

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Ensign

The most common words with a similar meaning to Ensign:

Chiefly British: pendant
emblem, hallmark, impresa, logo, symbol, totem, trademark, banderole, banner, colors, flag, guidon, jack, pennant, pennon, standard, streamer

Related Words for Ensign

attribute, icon, pictograph, logogram, logograph, badge, coat of arms, cognizance, crest, insignia, monogram, colophon, stamp, token, bunting, gonfalon, black flag, Jolly Roger, tricolor, union jack, white flag, burgee, semaphore, signaler, waft

Origin & Etymology of Ensign

Middle English ensigne, sign, token, banner, from Anglo-French enseigne, from Latin insignia insignia, flags

First known use: 15th century

Frequently Asked Questions about Ensign

What does "Ensign" mean?

"Ensign" means a flag that is flown (as by a ship) as the symbol of nationality and that may also be flown with a distinctive badge added to its design. As a noun, it is defined as: a flag that is flown (as by a ship) as the symbol of nationality and that may also be flown with a distinctive badge added to its design. It has 2 distinct senses.

What is another word for "Ensign"?

Other words for "Ensign" include emblem, hallmark, impresa, logo, symbol, totem, trademark and banderole. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Ensign" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Ensign"?

There are 43 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Ensign". Common alternatives include emblem, hallmark, impresa, logo, symbol, totem, trademark, banderole, banner and colors.

How do you use "Ensign" in a sentence?

Examples of "Ensign" in a sentence: "that ensign of tutorial authority, the hickory stick"; "fittingly, the organization promoting the welfare of marine life features a dolphin on its ensign".

Is "Ensign" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Ensign" is a noun.

How do you pronounce "Ensign"?

"Ensign" is pronounced /ˈen(t)-sən/ and divided into syllables as en·sign.

What is the origin of the word "Ensign"?

"Ensign" comes from Middle English ensigne, sign, token, banner, from Anglo-French enseigne, from Latin insignia insignia, flags. First known use: 15th century.

What is another word for "Ensign" meaning "a device, design, or figure used as an identifying mark"?

When "Ensign" (noun) means a device, design, or figure used as an identifying mark, synonyms include emblem, hallmark, impresa, logo, symbol and totem.