oriflamme

noun3

1. •
   (figurative) Any banner, idea or principle which serves as a rallying point for those involved in a struggle.

   • And be your oriflamme to-day the helmet of Navarre. — 1824
2. •
   (historical) The red silk banner of St Denis, which the abbot of St Denis gave to French kings as they rode to war in the Middle Ages.

   • The white banner with the golden lilies of France has been unfurled. The oriflamme has been presented to the virginal bride who stands before the altar in the forest chapel. — 1988
3. •
   (literary) Something resembling the banner of St Denis; a bright, shining object.

   • On the other side Mailey's yellow beard flamed like an oriflamme. — 1925