Cock*ade" (?), n. [F. cocarble, fr. coquard vain, OF. coquart, fr. coq cock, prob. of imitative origin. The ornament is so named from its resemblance to the crest of a cock. Cf. Coquette.]
A badge, usually in the form of a rosette, or knot, and generally worn upon the hat; -- used as an indication of military or naval service, or party allegiance, and in England as a part of the livery to indicate that the wearer is the servant of a military or naval officer.
Seduced by military liveries and cockades.
Burke.
© Webster 1913.