Definition of ensign
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
3a
: 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
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for ensign
The first known use of ensign was in the 15th century
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