| Flag Facts
What is the study of flags called?
The formal study of the history, symbolism, and usage of flags is called Vexillology. The term was coined in 1957 by Whitney Smith, an American scholar and flag designer. The term combines the Latin word vexillum (a type of ancient Roman flag) with the Greek suffix -logia (study of).
What are the different parts of a flag?
To understand flag design, you need to know the basic anatomy:
- Hoist: The side of the flag used to attach it to the pole.
- Fly: The free-flapping part of the flag, furthest from the pole.
- Canton: The top-inner quarter of the flag (like the stars on the U.S. flag).
- Field (or Ground): The background colour of the flag.
What does it mean to fly a flag at "half-mast"?
Flying a flag at half-mast(on land) or half-mast (at sea) is a sign of mourning, respect, or tribute following the death of a government official or a national tragedy.
Note: When hoisting a flag to half-mast, you should first raise it to the peak for an instant and then lower it to the half-mast position.
How should a flag be retired or disposed of?
When a flag becomes worn, torn, or faded and is no longer fit for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Many local organizations, such as the VFW or Boy Scouts, offer flag retirement ceremonies.
Can a national flag be flown at night?
Yes, but traditional etiquette dictates that it must be properly illuminated so that it is visible in the dark. If you cannot light the flag, it should be lowered at sunset.
Why are most flags rectangular?
Rectangular flags are the standard because they are the easiest to manufacture and fly well in the wind. However, there are exceptions: Nepal has the only non-quadrilateral national flag (it is two stacked triangles), and Switzerland and Vatican City have square flags.
What do the colours on flags usually represent?
While meanings vary by culture, there are some common themes:
- Red: Bravery, revolution, or the blood spilled for independence.
- Blue: Peace, freedom, or the sky and sea.
- White: Purity, innocence, or peace.
- Green: Agriculture, fertility, or the Islamic faith.
- Yellow/Gold: Wealth, the sun, or resources like grain.