Ensign

(en'sīn.) [Fr. enseigne; L. in, and signum, a monk.] (Mil.) In the English service, the lowest commi ioned officer in a regiment, ranking beneath 2d lieutenant; he carries the colors in a company of infantry. (Naut.) A large flag hoisted on a staff at the poop-rail, or flying from the mizzen-gaff of a ship. Also, a national flag, hoisted with the upper corner downwards, when used as a signal of distre . Ships do not display their E. at sea, except when speaking strange ve els. [s. 332]