pennant

From Middle English penon, penoun, pynoun, Old French penon, French pennon, from Latin penna (“feather”). See pen (“a feather”), and compare pennon, pinion.

• IPA^(key): /ˈpɛnənt/
• Rhymes: -ɛnənt

• Audio (US)

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pennant (plural pennants)

1. A flag normally used by naval vessels to represent a special condition.
   1. The broad pennant flown by commodores.
   2. The church pennant indicating religious services are taking place aboard ship.
   3. The commissioning pennant flown on ceremonial occasions.
2. A small flag with pointed end, formerly carried by cavalry or other mounted troops to serve as a rallying point or ceremonial unit identification.
3. (sports) The winning of a competition, represented by a flag.

   The New York Yankees have won the American League pennant far more often than any other team.

4. A commemorative flag, traditionally triangular and made of felt, typically used to show support for a particular athletic team.
5. A rope or strap to which a purchase is hooked.
6. A sandstone between coal measures in parts of South Wales
7. Either of two species of libellulid dragonfly of the genus Macrodiplax, of the tropics and subtropics.

Not to be confused with pedant (one overly concerned with correctness), nor with pendant (a piece of jewellery).

• pennon
• pendant

• Pennant in the 1921 edition of Collier's Encyclopedia.