Main Entry: en·sign

Pronunciation: \ˈen(t)-sən, also ˈen-ˌsīn for 1, 2, & 3a\

Function: noun

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

Date: 15th century

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