What is "oriflamb"

Oriflamb \Or"i*flamb\, Oriflamme \Or"i*flamme\, n. [F. oriflamme, OF. oriflambe, LL. auriflamma; L. aurum gold + flamma flame; cf. L. flammula a little banner. So called because it was a flag of red silk, split into many points, and borne on a gilded lance.]

1. The ancient royal standard of France.

2. A standard or ensign, in battle. ``A handkerchief like an oriflamb.''
   --Longfellow.

   And be your oriflamme to-day the helmet of Navarre.
   --Macaulay.

n. (archaic form of oriflamme English)