Middle School
Worksheets
What Is Vexillology?
Vexillology is a long and funny looking word. What does it mean? Vexillology is the study of flags. The word itself comes from the Latin word vexillum, meaning "banner." Specifically, a vexillologist studies the history, symbolism, etiquette, design, and manufacture of flags. You don't need a special degree to participate in vexillology; you just need an interest in flags!
You may already know that each color and symbol on a flag usually means something. Did you also know that a flag's shape can tell you something about what it represents? Flags in the U.S. are usually rectangular, although the exact proportions vary. Double-triangle flags are usually used in Asian cultures. These flags look like two triangles, one higher than the other. Swallowtail flags are typically associated with Northern Europe. Swallowtail flags have the triangular pieces at one end of the rectangular-shaped flag.
