1. Plural of gonfalonier; a chief magistrate or leader in certain Italian city-states during the medieval and Renaissance periods, especially in Florence.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to specific officials
2. Bearers or keepers of a gonfanon (a banner or standard), particularly in religious or civic processions.
Usage: historical; ceremonial

Examples

• The gonfaloniers of Florence held significant political power during the Renaissance.
• The city's gonfaloniers were elected to lead the government for two-month terms.
• Medieval gonfaloniers carried ornate banners in religious processions.
• The gonfaloniers represented the major guilds and merchant families.
• Historical records document the decisions made by various gonfaloniers throughout the 15th century.