Definition

Noun: 1. A decorative cord or braid worn on the shoulder of a military or ceremonial uniform: An aiguillette is a type of ornamental shoulder cord, typically made of metallic or colored threads, often ending in metal tags or points. It is worn as part of a formal uniform to denote rank, appointment, or as a ceremonial accessory.

Usage Examples

• The general's formal dress uniform was distinguished by a gold aiguillette on his right shoulder.
• Naval aides-de-camp are often identified by the specific style of their aiguillette.
• The ceremonial guard wore pristine white uniforms adorned with silver aiguillettes.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used almost exclusively in the context of military, diplomatic, or other official ceremonial dress. The design, color, and shoulder on which it is worn (left or right) are often prescribed by regulations to signify a specific role or honor.
• In historical contexts, an aiguillette could refer to the pointed end of a lace or cord used to fasten clothing, which is the origin of the modern decorative item.

Variants and Related Words

• Aiguillette is the standard spelling. The variant spelling aglet refers specifically to the plastic or metal tip at the end of a shoelace, which shares a common etymological root with aiguillette but is a different object.
• Shoulder cord: A more general, descriptive term for similar uniform ornaments.
• Fourragère: A specific type of braided cord award worn on the shoulder, similar in appearance to an aiguillette.

Synonyms

• Shoulder cord
• Shoulder braid (though this often refers to a flat braid, not a cord)
• Dress cord

Related Idioms or Phrases

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using the word aiguillette. Its usage is confined to descriptive contexts regarding uniforms and regalia.

Noun

1. ornamental tagged cord or braid on the shoulder of a uniform