Which of the following correctly describes the general shapes of flags and pennants?

• A. Flag can be triangular; Pennant is rectangular
• B. Flag is square or rectangular; Pennant is triangular
• C. Flag is always larger than pennants
• D. Flag is square or rectangular; Pennant is triangular

Answer: (B)

Flags on ships are typically square or rectangular, while pennants are triangular. This combination fits how they’re used: a flag’s broader, flat shape is easy to hoist and display on a flagstaff, whereas a pennant’s tapered, triangular form creates a distinct, wind-friendly silhouette that’s easy to read at a distance. So the general shapes described—flag square or rectangular and pennant triangular—best reflect standard practice.