epaulette

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