Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Cockade \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.

Source : WordNet®

cockade
     n : an ornament (such as a knot of ribbon or a rosette) usually
         worn on the hat