Flags have inspired pride, unity, and identity for centuries — but how much do you really know about them? Here are the 10 most searched flag questions online, answered clearly.
1. What is the study of flags called?
The study of flags is called vexillology — from the Latin vexillum (flag) and Greek -logia (study). People who study flags are known as vexillologists, and they explore a wide range of topics, including flag design, history, and cultural symbolism.
2. Which country’s flag is not a rectangle?
Only Nepal breaks the mold! Its flag is made of two stacked triangles, symbolizing the Himalayan mountains and the nation’s two dominant religions — Hinduism and Buddhism. Every other national flag is rectangular.
3. Why don’t most flags have purple in them?
Purple dye was once more valuable than gold because it was made from rare sea snails. For centuries, only royalty could afford it, so early flag makers avoided using purple altogether. Today, only Dominica and Nicaragua use it in their national flags.
4. What is the oldest national flag still in use today?
That honor goes to Denmark’s Dannebrog, which dates back to 1219. According to legend, it fell from the sky during a battle and has been a national symbol ever since. It’s the world’s oldest continuously used national flag.
5. Which flags have different designs on each side?
Only three countries — Paraguay, Moldova, and Saudi Arabia — have flags that differ front and back. For example, Saudi Arabia’s sacred Arabic script must face the correct direction on both sides, which is why the flag is double-sided.
6. What do flag colors actually mean?
Though meanings vary by country, common interpretations include:
Red – Courage, valor, or sacrifice
White – Peace or purity
Blue – Freedom, loyalty, or justice
Green – Land, hope, or prosperity
Colors tell powerful stories — and when you design a custom flag, each shade can reflect your organization’s message.
7. What does it mean when a flag is at half-staff?
When flown halfway down the pole, a flag shows mourning or respect — often after the death of a national leader, service member, or during remembrance events. It’s a universal gesture of solemn honor.
8. Which flag has the most colors in the world?
The flag of Belize holds the record for having 12 different colors, thanks to its detailed coat of arms, which features two woodcutters and a mahogany tree. Most national flags have only three colors.
9. How many stars are on the American flag, and what do they mean?
The U.S. flag features 50 stars, representing each of the 50 states, and 13 stripes, symbolizing the original 13 colonies. Since 1777, the American flag has changed 27 times — evolving as new states joined the Union.
10. Why do ships use flags to communicate?
Before radios, sailors used nautical signal flags to send messages across the sea. Each flag represents a letter or meaning — like “diver down,” “engine trouble,” or “man overboard.” Even today, signal flags are used in maritime traditions.
