ep·aulette epaulettes in AM, use epaulet Epaulettes are decorations worn on the shoulders of certain uniforms, especially military ones. a small piece of cloth attached to the shoulder of a coat or shirt, especially on a military uniform (épaulette, from épaule )
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