epaulette

/ˈɛpəˌlɛt/

Other forms: epaulettes

An epaulette is a shoulder piece that's part of many military uniforms. It's a type of colorful decoration that sometimes signifies rank.

If you look at a military uniform, there are many things you might see, such as stripes and medals. Another is epaulettes, which are ornamentations found on the shoulders. Epaulettes are usually colorful, and they often convey a higher rank. You probably wouldn't find epaulettes on a foot soldier, but you probably would on a general. Epaulettes will vary in size and color depending on the rank and branch of the military. Epaulette comes from a French word for shoulder.

Definitions of epaulette

1. noun

   adornment consisting of an ornamental cloth pad worn on the shoulder
   synonyms: epaulet

   types:

   shoulder board, shoulder mark

   epaulets that indicate rank

   type of:

   adornment

   a decoration of color or interest that is added to relieve plainness