Common Latin Terms in Vexillology

This extended list gives a comprehensive view of different divisions and design elements in vexillology and heraldry, capturing the diversity of ways flags can be structured and patterned.

1. Per Fess – Divided horizontally.
2. Per Pale – Divided vertically.
3. Per Bend – Divided diagonally from upper left to lower right.
4. Per Saltire – Divided diagonally in an X-shape (diagonal quartering).
5. Per Cross – Divided vertically and horizontally (regular quartering).
6. Per Chevron – Divided in a V-shape (chevron).
7. Per Chevron Inverted – Divided in an upside-down V-shape.
8. Per Fess Versuram – Divided horizontally and rotated 180 degrees.
9. Per Bend Contrapositus – Divided diagonally and counterchanged.
10. Fimbriation – A thin border around a design.
11. Bordure – A thicker border surrounding the flag or design.
12. Counterchanged – Colors or patterns on one side of a division (such as per bend, per cross, or per saltire) are reversed or swapped on the opposite side.
13. Chequy – Checkered patterns.
14. Gyronny – Divided into triangular sections radiating from the center.
15. Paly – Divided into several vertical stripes.
16. Barry – Divided into several horizontal stripes.
17. Lozengy – A pattern made up of diamond shapes.
18. Orle – An internal border that follows the shape of the flag’s edges.
19. Indented – A zigzag pattern dividing two parts.