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oriflamme

noun
ori·​flamme | \ ˈȯr-É™-ËŒflam How to pronounce oriflamme (audio) , ˈär-\

Definition of oriflamme

: a banner, symbol, or ideal inspiring devotion or courage
Did You Know? Example Sentences Learn More about oriflamme

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Did You Know?

The original oriflamme was the banner of Saint Denis, a patron saint of France who is said to have been the first bishop of Paris. Middle English speakers referred to this red or reddish orange banner using the Middle French term oriflamble, from Old French ori flambe, meaning "small flag." From the 12th to the 15th centuries, French kings carried the banner into battle as a way of inspiring their troops. This tactic met with such success that, by 1600, English speakers were using "oriflamme" to refer to any group's rallying symbol.

Examples of oriflamme in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 For full thirty years Miss Anthony’s red shawl has been the oriflamme of suffrage battle. — Kimberly Chrisman-campbell, The Atlantic, "When American Suffragists Tried to ‘Wear the Pants’," 12 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'oriflamme.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of oriflamme

1600, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for oriflamme

Middle English oriflamble, the banner of St. Denis, from Middle French, from Old French ori flambe, small flag

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More from Merriam-Webster on oriflamme

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with oriflamme

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