Irish pennant

noun Nautical Slang: Sometimes Offensive.

an unwhipped rope end.

any strand or rope end left hanging untidily.

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Origin of Irish pennant

First recorded in 1880–85

Usage note

Though no longer used as a deliberate slur, this term is sometimes perceived as insulting to or by the Irish. It originated in the Royal Navy in the 1800s, during the time of sailing ships.