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

Officials said at the time that the items taken included a large diamond brooch and a diamond epaulette.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 17, 2022

The epaulette which you wear with honour, would be a badge of disgrace upon my shoulder.

From The O'Donoghue Tale Of Ireland Fifty Years Ago by Lever, Charles James