aiguillette: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “aiguillette” mean?
A braided ornamental cord with metal tips worn as part of a military or ceremonial uniform, or a meat dish consisting of a long, thin slice of poultry or meat.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A braided ornamental cord with metal tips worn as part of a military or ceremonial uniform, or a meat dish consisting of a long, thin slice of poultry or meat.
In military contexts, it denotes a specific rank or appointment distinction. In cooking, it refers to a specific knife cut or prepared dish. It can also refer historically to a type of needle or pointed metal tool.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is identical. The military/fashion sense is slightly more recognised in British English due to Commonwealth ceremonial uniforms. The culinary sense is more universally known in professional kitchens.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word carries connotations of formality, tradition, and specialization.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language. Higher frequency in specialised contexts like military history, haute cuisine, or historical costume.
Grammar
How to Use “aiguillette” in a Sentence
The [rank] wore an aiguillette.He was decorated with an aiguillette.The chef prepared an aiguillette of [meat].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “aiguillette” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The aiguillette braiding was intricate.
- He preferred the aiguillette style of presentation.
American English
- The aiguillette cords were freshly polished.
- The aiguillette cut requires a very sharp knife.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in papers on military history, uniformology, or culinary arts.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would likely require explanation.
Technical
Standard term in military dress regulations and in classical French cuisine.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “aiguillette”
- Mispronouncing as /ˈæɡwɪlɛt/ or /aɪˈɡjuːlɛt/.
- Confusing the culinary and military meanings.
- Misspelling as 'aguilette' or 'aigullette'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both words derive from the Old French 'aguillette', diminutive of 'aguille' (needle), referring to something small and pointed.
Historically, it could refer to a needle or a pointed metal tool used for threading or fastening, but this usage is now obsolete.
Context is everything. Military, ceremonial, or historical context points to the uniform ornament. Menus, recipes, or cooking shows point to the culinary cut.
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised loanword from French. Most native speakers would only know it if they have a specific interest in military history, formal uniforms, or haute cuisine.
A braided ornamental cord with metal tips worn as part of a military or ceremonial uniform, or a meat dish consisting of a long, thin slice of poultry or meat.
Aiguillette is usually formal, technical in register.
Aiguillette: in British English it is pronounced /ˌeɪɡwɪˈlɛt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌeɪɡwəˈlɛt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms feature this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'a guy' (aigu-) in a 'lette' (uniform) wearing a fancy braid, or a 'guy' with a 'letter' opener that looks like a small needle (its original meaning).
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS ADORNMENT (military sense), REFINEMENT IS PRECISION (culinary sense).
Practice
Quiz
In which of these contexts would you LEAST likely encounter the word 'aiguillette'?