this post was submitted on 07 May 2025
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Vexillology

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[–] [email protected] 4 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago)

‘Defacing’ is the proper term in vexillology.

From the Wikipedia article on the term:

In vexillology, defacement is the addition of a symbol or charge to a flag. For example, the Australian flag is the British Blue Ensign defaced with a Southern Cross in the fly.

In the context of vexillology, the word "deface" carries no negative connotations, in contrast to general usage. It simply indicates a differentiation of the flag from that of another owner by addition of elements. For example, many state flags are formed by defacing the national flag with a coat of arms.