gonfalon in English
- gonfalon⇄gonfalon, noun.
a flag or banner hung from a crossbar instead of a pole, often having several streamers. Gonfalons were used especially by medieval Italian republics.
Gonfalon
Part of Speech
Noun
Pronunciation
/ˈɡɒn.fə.lɒn/ (British English), /ˈɡɑːn.fə.lɑːn/ (American English)
Definitions
1. A banner or flag, especially one with streamers, used as a symbol of a state, city, or military unit.
2. A long, narrow, vertical banner often associated with medieval and Renaissance heraldry.
Usage Examples
1. "The knights rode under the gonfalon of their kingdom, proudly displaying their coat of arms."
2. "Each city-state in Renaissance Italy had its own distinctive gonfalon."
3. "The festival procession was led by a richly embroidered gonfalon."
Etymology
Derived from Old Italian *gonfalone*, possibly from a Germanic origin, influenced by medieval Latin.
Synonyms
Banner, Standard, Pennant, Flag.
Antonyms
(No direct antonyms, but can be contrasted with) Plain Cloth, Unadorned Fabric.
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Gonfalón | /ɡon.faˈlon/ |
| French | Gonfalon | /ɡɔ̃.fa.lɔ̃/ |
| German | Gonfalon | /ˈɡɔn.fa.lɔn/ |
| Hindi | गोनफलोन (Gonfalon) | /ɡoːn.fə.lɔːn/ |
| Tamil | கோன்பலான் (Gōṉpalān) | /ɡoːn.pa.lɑːn/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
British English: /ˈɡɒn.fə.lɒn/
American English: /ˈɡɑːn.fə.lɑːn/
Historical Usage
The gonfalon was prominently used in medieval European city-states, especially in Italy, where it was carried during ceremonies and military campaigns.
Cultural Nuances
Gonfalons were often richly decorated with symbols of nobility, religious emblems, or city crests. They continue to be used in some academic and religious ceremonies today.
More Information
Historically, gonfalons were important in distinguishing different factions, noble houses, or armies. They were often held by a *gonfalonier*, an officer responsible for carrying and protecting the banner.