What are the stripes of the flag commonly referred to as?

The stripes of the flag are commonly referred to as the "field" or "ground." In flag terminology, the field is typically the background or the main surface area of the flag, which can include stripes or other patterns. The stripes serve not only as a design element but also as a symbolic representation of the values or history of the nation it represents.

In many flags, these horizontal or vertical stripes hold significant meaning, representing unity, diversity, or specific historical events or attributes of the country. This understanding is crucial in interpreting the symbolism of a flag and the messages it conveys.

The other terms in the options refer to different aspects of flag design. The hoist refers to the side of the flag that is attached to the flagpole, the canton is usually the upper corner area that may contain additional symbols or emblems, and the fly describes the opposite end of the hoist, which is the free end of the flag that flutters in the wind. Each term has its specific context, but when discussing the stripes, "field" or "ground" is the appropriate terminology.