Pronunciation: [pˈɛnənz] (IPA) 
The word "pennons" is spelled with a double "n" in between the letter "o" and "s". Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈpɛnənz/, with the stress falling on the first syllable "pen". This word refers to small flags or banners that are attached to the end of a lance or spear. The spelling of "pennons" can easily be remembered by the rule that when a word ends with a consonant plus "o" plus "n", it is spelled with a double "n".
Pennons are decorative flags or banners that are typically attached to a pole or lance. They are long and narrow in shape, tapering to a point at one end. Pennons have been used throughout history for various purposes, including in military, heraldic, and ceremonial contexts.
In battle, pennons were often used as identification markers for individual knights or groups of soldiers. These flags would be flown atop lances or spears, allowing commanders to easily distinguish between friend and foe on a chaotic battlefield. The design of a pennon could include symbols, patterns, or colors associated with a specific knight or family, making it a highly personalized emblem.
Outside of warfare, pennons were also widely used in heraldry. They were an essential component of a coat of arms, providing additional visual detail and symbolism. In ceremonial settings, such as parades or processions, pennons were often used to add a touch of grandeur and pageantry. They would be carried by participants or hung from flagpoles, adding a colorful and festive ambiance to the event.
Today, pennons are primarily associated with historical reenactments, medieval-themed events, and heraldic displays. They represent a tangible link to the past and evoke a sense of medieval chivalry and nobility.
The word "pennons" is derived from the Old French word "penon", which originated from the Latin word "penna" meaning "feather" or "wing". In medieval heraldry, a pennon referred to a small, tapering flag or banner attached to a lance or spear. Over time, it came to encompass any type of small, triangular or swallow-tailed flag or streamer. The plural form, "pennons", is used to indicate multiple such flags.
