oak leaf cluster

noun

1. a U.S. military decoration in the form of a small bronze twig bearing four oak leaves and three acorns, worn on the ribbon of another decoration for valor, wounds, or distinguished service to signify a second award of the same medal.

oak-leaf cluster

noun

1. an insignia consisting of oak leaves and acorns awarded to holders of certain military decorations to indicate a further award of the same decoration

Word History and Origins

Origin of oak-leaf cluster¹

An Americanism dating back to 1915–20