epaulet
UK: ˈep.ə.let | US: ˈep.ə.let
n. a decorative shoulder piece or badge worn on uniforms, typically by military or civil service personnel.
The word "epaulet" traces back to the French épaulette, a diminutive of épaule (shoulder). It entered English in the 18th century, retaining its original reference to a small ornamental shoulder piece. The French épaule itself derives from Latin spatula (a flat blade or shoulder blade), reflecting the item's placement on the shoulder. The suffix -et denotes a smaller or decorative version, emphasizing the functional yet ornamental role of epaulets in uniforms.
The captain’s uniform was adorned with golden epaulets.
Epaulets were originally designed to hold shoulder belts in place.
She admired the intricate embroidery on the general’s epaulets.
Modern police uniforms often omit traditional epaulets.
The vintage jacket featured faux leather epaulets for a military-inspired look.