It also refers to the distance from top to bottom of the flag. Hoist - The term hoist is used to refer to the half (and edge) closest to where the flag is hung. Position Terms Used to Describe the American Flag By nature, it "flies" freely and endures the most stress or whip. The term fly is used to describe the length of the flag, and the fly end is the side that is not secured. The canton of the US flag is also called the Union - the blue background where the 50 stars are sewn or appliqued.įield - the background or predominant color of the flag.įly End - The fly end is the edge of the flag furthest away from the pole. In modern flag design it usually refers to the top left corner (upper hoist), which is the position of honor. These are usually made of brass and used to secure an outdoor flag.Ĭanton - Technically the canton can be any quarter of the flag. Grommet - A metal ring or eyelet embedded in the header. The header is usually made of a thick cotton/poly blend that feels like canvas. Header (or heading) - The header is a band of material placed on the pole side (hoist) of the flag, it serves to secure the flag to the halyard line. The flag of the USA can be configured differently for unique applications.
![west point band stars and stripes west point band stars and stripes](https://direct.rhapsody.com/imageserver/images/alb.70785842/600x600.jpg)
Some terms refer to the physical pieces used to assemble the flag, and some terms refer to the elements of the flag, identifying their position and location regarding flag design.Īnd not every flag is created equally. Specific terms are used to describe parts of the US flag.