What is "ensign bearer"

ensign \en"sign\ ([e^]n"s[i^]n also [e^]n"s[imac]n, except for 4a), n. [L. enseigne, L. insignia, pl. of insigne a distinctive mark, badge, flag; in + signum mark, sign. See Sign, and cf. Insignia, 3d Ancient.]

1. A flag; a banner; a standard; esp., the national flag, or a banner indicating nationality, carried by a ship or a body of soldiers; -- as distinguished from flags indicating divisions of the army, rank of naval officers, or private signals, and the like.

   Hang up your ensigns, let your drums be still.
   --Shak.

2. A signal displayed like a standard, to give notice.

   He will lift an ensign to the nations from far.
   --Is. v. 26.

3. Sign; badge of office, rank, or power; symbol.

   The ensigns of our power about we bear.
   --Waller.

4. 1. Formerly, a commissioned officer of the army who carried the ensign or flag of a company or regiment.

   2. A commissioned officer of the lowest grade in the navy, corresponding to the grade of second lieutenant in the army.
      --Ham. Nav. Encyc.

      Note: In the British army the rank of ensign was abolished in 1871. In the United States army the rank is not recognized; the regimental flags being carried by a sergeant called the color sergeant.

      Ensign bearer, one who carries a flag; an ensign.