— ensignship, ensigncy , n.
/en"suyn/ ; Mil. /en"seuhn/ , n.
1. a flag or banner, as a military or naval standard used to indicate nationality.
2. a badge of office or authority, as heraldic arms.
3. a sign, token, or emblem: the dove, an ensign of peace.
4. U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. the lowest commissioned officer, ranking next below a lieutenant, junior grade, and equal to a second lieutenant in the Army.
5. Archaic. standard-bearer (def. 1).
[ 1325-75; ME ensigne enseigne insignia; see INSIGNIA ]
Syn. 1. pennant, streamer.