Word
ensign
Phoneticsen·sign, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɛnsən/
UK/ˈɛnsaɪn/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a special flag flown on a ship to show which country it belongs to. It can also be the lowest rank for an officer in some navies.
n. a national flag or banner displayed on a vessel to indicate nationality; also refers to the lowest commissioned officer rank in certain naval forces. Often used in nautical or military contexts.
Examples
“The ship raised its ensign as it entered the harbor.”
“Upon reaching international waters, the captain ordered the crew to hoist the British ensign to identify the vessel.”
“The young officer was proud to be promoted to the rank of ensign, though he knew the responsibilities of his new station would be significantly more demanding.”
Examples
simple
“The ship raised its ensign as it entered the harbor.”
contextual
“Upon reaching international waters, the captain ordered the crew to hoist the British ensign to identify the vessel.”
complex
“The young officer was proud to be promoted to the rank of ensign, though he knew the responsibilities of his new station would be significantly more demanding.”
Usage
Commonly used with verbs like 'hoist', 'lower', or 'fly' when referring to the flag.
Related words
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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