Definition

1. Noun:
   • A banner or standard: "gonfalon" refers to a type of banner or flag, often suspended from a crossbar, used in processions, ceremonies, or as a symbol of a group, city, or guild. It is typically long and narrow, with a pointed or swallow-tailed end.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The medieval guild carried its gonfalon in the annual parade. (A ceremonial banner representing the guild.)
  • The city's gonfalon was displayed prominently in the town hall. (A flag symbolizing the municipality.)

Advanced Usage

• "to bear the gonfalon": to carry or be responsible for the banner, often metaphorically meaning to lead or represent a cause.
  • He was chosen to bear the gonfalon for the university at the commencement ceremony. (He was the official standard-bearer.)

Variants and Related Words

• Gonfalonier (n): a standard-bearer; an official who carries the gonfalon, especially in historical Italian republics.
  • The gonfalonier led the procession through the city streets. (The banner-holder.)

Synonyms

• Banner: a long strip of cloth bearing a design or slogan.
• Standard: a military or ceremonial flag.
• Pennant: a long, narrow flag, often triangular or swallow-tailed.

Related Idioms