Vexillology
Noun
- The study of flags.
Example Sentences
“A childhood interest in vexillology is what got me started in graphic design.”
“A study of medieval vexillology will reveal much about Europe’s most powerful families.”
“The lecturer discussed the impact vexillology had on the country’s traditions.”
Word Origin
Latin, 1950s
Why this word?
Vexillology is the study of flags; the name for this field comes from the Latin “vexillum,” meaning “flag, military ensign, banner.” “Vexillology” originally comes from “velum,” meaning “a sail, curtain, veil.” The North American Vexillological Association promotes itself as “the world’s largest organization of flag enthusiasts and scholars.” The group published “Good Flag, Bad Flag,” a booklet that proposes five basic principles for good flag design: Keep it simple, use meaningful symbolism, use two or three basic colors, no lettering or seals, and be distinctive or be related.