epaulette

• HYPHEN: ep=au=lette

CIDE DICTIONARY

epaulette, n. [F. épaulette, dim. of épaule shoulder, fr. L. spatula a broad piece (LL., shoulder), dim. of spatha abroad, flat instrument, fr. Gr. , also, a broad rib, shoulder blade. See Spade the instrument, and cf. Epaule, Spatula.].

 A shoulder ornament or badge worn by military and naval officers, differences of rank being marked by some peculiar form or device, as a star, eagle, etc.; a shoulder knot.  [1913 Webster]
" In the United States service the epaulet is reserved for full dress uniform. Its use was abolished in the British army in 1855."

OXFORD DICTIONARY

epaulette, n. (US epaulet) an ornamental shoulder-piece on a coat, dress, etc., esp. on a uniform.

Etymology

F {eacute}paulette dimin. of {eacute}paule shoulder f. L spatula: see SPATULA

ROGET THESAURUS

epaulette

Title

N title, honor, knighthood, highness, excellency, grace, lordship, worship, reverence, reverend, esquire, sir, master, Mr, signor, senor, Mein Herr, mynheer, your honor, his honor, serene highness, handle to one's name, decoration, laurel, palm, wreath, garland, bays, medal, ribbon, riband, blue ribbon, cordon, cross, crown, coronet, star, garter, feather, feather in one's cap, epaulet, epaulette, colors, cockade, livery, order, arms, shield, scutcheon, reward.