Epaulette vs. Epaulet — What's the Difference?

Epaulette (; also spelled epaulet) is a type of ornamental shoulder piece or decoration used as insignia of rank by armed forces and other organizations. Flexible metal epaulettes (usually made from brass) are referred to as shoulder scales.

A shoulder ornament, especially a fringed strap worn on military uniforms.

A shoulder ornament, especially a fringed strap worn on military uniforms.

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.

An ornamentation, worn on the shoulders of a military uniform, as a sign of rank.

Adornment consisting of an ornamental cloth pad worn on the shoulder

A similar piece of trimming on a lady’s dress.

A plate on the anterior wings of some insects.

The red patch on the shoulders of a red-winged blackbird.

Adornment consisting of an ornamental cloth pad worn on the shoulder