Definition

1. Noun:
   • A shoulder ornament: An epaulet is a decorative cloth pad or piece of material worn on the shoulder of a uniform, typically as part of a military, naval, or ceremonial outfit. It often indicates rank or affiliation.

Usage

• Epaulets are primarily used as part of formal uniforms.
• They are attached to the shoulder seam of a jacket, coat, or shirt.
• Their design, color, and embellishments (like fringe, braid, or insignia) can signify the wearer's rank, branch of service, or unit.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The general's uniform was distinguished by its gold epaulets.
  • The sailor polished the brass insignia on his epaulet before the ceremony.

Advanced Usage

• "To win one's epaulet": An idiomatic expression meaning to earn a commission or be promoted to an officer's rank.
  • After years of service, he finally won his epaulet.

Variants and Related Words

• Epaulette: An alternative spelling, identical in meaning and usage.
  • The ceremonial tunic featured elaborate silver epaulettes.

Synonyms

• Shoulder board: A stiff, often more rigid, shoulder ornament used on naval uniforms.
• Shoulder knot: An ornamental cord or braid worn on the shoulder.
• Shoulder strap: A strap on the shoulder, which can be functional or decorative, sometimes used interchangeably with epaulet in casual contexts.

Idioms and Phrases

• "To earn one's epaulets": Similar to "to win one's epaulet," meaning to achieve the status of an officer.
  • She earned her epaulets through exceptional leadership and courage.

Noun

1. adornment consisting of an ornamental cloth pad worn on the shoulder