CORNET, in modern military economy, denotes an officer in the cavalry who bears the standard or colours of a troop or squadron.
The cornet is the third commissioned officer in the company, and commands in the absence of the captain and lieutenant. He takes his title from his ensign, which is square; and he is supposed to be called by the name of cornet, from cornu, because placed on the wings, which form the points or horns of the army. Others derive the name from coronet, alleging that it was the ancient custom for these officers to wear coronets or garlands on their heads.