epaulette

British  

/ ˈɛpəˌlɛt, -lɪt /

noun

1. a piece of ornamental material on the shoulder of a garment, esp a military uniform

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Etymology

Origin of epaulette

C18: from French épaulette, from épaule shoulder, from Latin spatula shoulder blade; see _spatula

Explanation

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.

Example Sentences

The study, published in Biology Open, closely tracked how much energy epaulette sharks, commonly known as "walking sharks," used during their short reproductive cycle.

From Science Daily • Jan. 21, 2026

An epaulette which includes a precious stone known as the Dresden White Diamond is still missing.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2022

Pieces still missing include an epaulette on which a precious stone known as the Dresden White Diamond was mounted.

From Reuters • Dec. 17, 2022

The scientists, who conducted the work in connection with the New England Aquarium, studied epaulette sharks, which live off Australia and New Guinea.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 10, 2021

Ah, Mr. Enderwood––pardon, that epaulette declares you are a captain and the red facings of your blue coat indicate that you lead Virginians.

From Rodney, the Ranger With Daniel Morgan on Trail and Battlefield by Goss, John