Grommet
/ˈɡrɒmɪt/noun
A ring or eyelet inserted in a hole to reinforce it, especially in fabric, leather, or sheet material.
Did you know?The word is believed to come through French from a word related to Old French *gromet*, meaning a servant or boy, though the exact path is uncertain, showing how technical words can wander far from their origins.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
gromet
“A small ring or loop used to strengthen a hole in cloth or leather.”
Old French
French
gromet
“A servant, attendant, or ship's boy.”
Late Medieval French
French
grommet
“A young man or servant; later a technical term in nautical and craft contexts.”
Modern English
English
grommet
“A metal, rubber, or plastic ring used to reinforce an opening.”