Definition of: ensign

(en′sīn) noun
1. A distinguished flag or banner; especially, a national standard or naval flag.
2. (en′sən) In the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard, a commissioned officer of the lowest grade, ranking with a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps.
3. In the British Army, until 1871, a commissioned officer who carried the flag of a regiment or company.
4. A badge or symbol, as of office.
5. Obs. A signal. [<F enseigne <L insignia <in- in + signum mark]