ensign

noun

en·​sign ˈen(t)-sən 

also for senses 1, 2, & 3a

ˈen-ˌsīn 

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

: a badge of office, rank, or power

b

: emblem, sign

3

a

: an infantry officer of what was formerly the lowest commissioned rank

b

: a commissioned officer in the navy or coast guard ranking above a chief warrant officer and below a lieutenant junior grade

Synonyms

• emblem
• hallmark
• impresa
• logo
• symbol
• totem
• trademark

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Future President Jimmy Carter as a U.S. Navy ensign in the World War II era. —Jordan Freiman, CBS News, 30 Dec. 2024

Seasons 4 and 5 saw the four main characters all get promoted to junior lieutenants, after slumming it as ensigns for the majority of the series. —Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 18 Dec. 2024

For their heroic efforts, two — an ensign and a seaman — were awarded medals of honor. —Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 6 Dec. 2024

The majestic ship features three towering masts, 10 full sails, a flying red ensign flag and intricate rigging. —Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

ensign

noun

en·​sign ˈen(t)-sən 

in senses 1 & 2 also

ˈen-ˌsīn 

1

: a flag flown as the symbol of nationality (as on a ship)

2

: a badge of office, rank, or power

3

: a naval commissioned officer of the lowest rank