aiguillette

An officer's uniform has a golden aiguillette on the shoulder.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Ornamental braid: An "aiguillette" is a decorative cord or braid worn on a uniform, typically on the shoulder, often ending in metal tips or tags. It is a part of military or ceremonial dress, serving as a symbol of rank, appointment, or distinction.

Usage Examples

• (A decorative cord indicating his special role or rank.)
• (The ornamental braid was a prominent feature of his attire.)

Advanced Usage

• "aiguillette of honor": a specific type of aiguillette awarded for service or distinction.

  • He received an aiguillette of honor for his years of dedicated service. (A decorative braid given as a formal recognition.)

• "aiguillette" in historical context: In the 17th and 18th centuries, aiguillettes were often used as part of livery or ceremonial uniforms for servants and courtiers.

  • The footman's aiguillette was made of silver thread. (The braid indicated his role in the household.)

Variants and Related Words

• Aglet (n): the metal or plastic tip at the end of a shoelace or cord, related to "aiguillette" through the same Latin root acus (needle).

  • The aglet on his shoelace was broken. (The tip that prevents fraying.)

• Aiguille (n): a needle-shaped rock formation or a pointed tool, sharing the same root.

  • The climbers ascended the aiguille. (A sharp, needle-like peak.)

Synonyms

• Braid: a woven strip of fabric or cord used for trimming.
• Cord: a thin, flexible string or rope, often decorative.
• Tassel: a hanging ornament made of threads, sometimes similar in function to an aiguillette.

Related Idioms

• (No common idioms directly use "aiguillette"; it is a specialized term.)

Phrasal Verbs

• (No phrasal verbs are associated with "aiguillette"; it is a noun used in specific contexts.)