knight banneret
Noun: 1. A knight honored for valor; entitled to display a square banner and to hold higher command: A knight banneret is a knight of a high and distinguished rank, specifically one who has been recognized for exceptional bravery on the battlefield. This honor grants the knight the right to carry a square banner (as opposed to the triangular pennon of a standard knight) and to command larger groups of soldiers.
The term is a historical title from the medieval period, specifically within the chivalric systems of England and France. It describes a knight who has been promoted on the field of battle for acts of great courage.
- The king created him a knight banneret after his decisive leadership in the battle.
- Only a knight banneret was entitled to have a square banner borne before him.
- The chronicles recorded the valiant deeds of the knight banneret who led the charge.
- The promotion to knight banneret was often performed by the sovereign or a high-ranking commander cutting or tearing the tails from the knight's pennon, thus making it square.
- This rank was above that of a knight bachelor but below the ranks of the peerage (e.g., baron).
- Banneret: A shortened, synonymous form of "knight banneret."
- Knight Bachelor: A knight of the most basic rank, not a member of an order of chivalry, who carried a pennon.
- Banner: The square flag that was the symbol and right of a knight banneret.
- Banneret
- Knight of the Square Banner (descriptive synonym)
The concept of a knight banneret is firmly rooted in medieval military history and chivalry. It is not a term used in modern honors systems. Its primary meaning is tied to the specific rights (the square banner and command) earned through demonstrated valor.
- a knight honored for valor; entitled to display a square banner and to hold higher command