Vocabulary in Old Ironsides

Vocabulary Examples in Old Ironsides:

"the gale!..." See in text (Text of the Poem)

A “gale” is a strong wind, which is typical in the sea storms that the U.S.S. Constitution would have faced.

Wesley, Owl Eyes Editor

"ensign..." See in text (Text of the Poem)

In this context, the noun “ensign” is a flag flown on a ship, usually to indicate nationality. Ensigns may also be used to identify military vessels.

Wesley, Owl Eyes Editor