A flag or standard, especially a military or naval one indicating nationality. The ship flew the national ensign proudly as it entered the harbor.
A commissioned officer of the lowest rank in the US Navy and Coast Guard, ranking below lieutenant junior grade. After graduating from the Naval Academy, she was commissioned as an ensign.
A junior infantry officer or standard-bearer in historical European and American armies. The young ensign marched at the front, carrying the regiment's colours.
Any badge, emblem, or distinguishing token; a sign of authority or identity. The lion rampant served as the royal ensign on his shield.