Which flag is synonymous with a national flag in military terms?

The term "ensign" is used synonymously with a national flag in military contexts. An ensign specifically refers to a flag that represents a nation's military forces, particularly in naval usage. This term conveys a sense of identity and allegiance, as the ensign is flown on ships and at military installations to signify the nationality of the personnel and their allegiance to the state.

In naval traditions, the ensign is raised at specific times and places, indicating the ship's nationality and authority. For instance, when a ship enters or leaves port, it typically displays its national ensign. This practice not only honors the nation but also differentiates the ship's affiliation among other vessels.

The other terms may relate to flags but hold different meanings. A banner is often a broader term for a flag that may not specifically denote military significance. While "colors" can refer to the flags that represent specific units, they do not necessarily denote the national representation that the "ensign" does. "Canton," which typically refers to a specific section of a flag that holds a design or emblem, does not encompass the whole concept of a national flag used in military terms. Thus, "ensign" distinctly fulfills the role of representing a nation's military in a way