Signal flags are used to communicate messages visually and from a distance. There are various synonyms for the word "signal flag" that are used in different contexts and situations. These include pennants, banners, standards, ensigns, flags, and streamers. Pennants are long, triangular flags used for signaling messages or indicating the presence of a ship or boat. Banners are large flags with designs or messages used for identification or advertising. Standards are tall, narrow flags carried on a pole by military units as a rallying point. Ensigns are flags used to represent a country or military unit. Flags are commonly used to signal distress or to mark a location. Streamers are long, narrow pieces of fabric used for decoration or as signals.